New Zealand is exploring the possibility of introducing Japan’s upgraded Mogami-class stealth frigate, known as the New FFM, as part of its fleet renewal plan.
The strategy was revealed during Royal New Zealand Navy Chief Rear Adm. Garin Golding’s meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani in Tokyo, where they cited China’s growing activities in the Pacific as a key factor behind the project, according to Kyodo News.
Golding emphasized the need for closer cooperation with Japan, while Nakatani called New Zealand a “very important partner” and expressed his intention to strengthen defense ties.
The talks also covered potential collaboration on technology, production, and integration associated with the warships.
While no acquisition contract was announced, the meeting positioned the New FFM as the leading option for New Zealand’s next-generation frigate program.
Support From Parallel Frigate Initiative
Australia’s adoption earlier this year of the upgraded Mogami design for its General Purpose Frigate program provides a model for regional cooperation, according to sources.
With Canberra now building 11 New FFM-based vessels worth over $6 billion, this move could help New Zealand lower costs, improve training, and maintain interoperability.
Both the Royal Australian Navy and Royal New Zealand Navy operate 1990s-era Anzac-class frigates, which are slated to be replaced by the incoming Japanese vessels.
The FFM System
Japan’s New FFM, now in development under Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will be 142 meters (466 feet) long and have a beam of 17 meters (56 feet).
It will feature an enhanced radar and 32-cell Mark 41 vertical launch system, doubling the 16 cells of the earlier version, to complement surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and a light artillery naval gun.
The vessel will incorporate a combined diesel and gas engine setup, also found in the standard Mogamis, as well as accommodation for up to 90 personnel and a single patrol helicopter.
Tokyo plans to acquire 12 New FFMs, with the first two set to enter service in 2028 and the entire fleet expected to be commissioned by 2032 if construction stays on schedule.
