MHI to build multi-role frigate pair for JMSDF

The Japanese Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) a contract to build the first two vessels of a new four-ship class of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) multi-role frigate.

The first two 3,900-tonne, 130- by 13-metre frigates are expected to be delivered in March 2022.

The first frigate will be built by MHI’s Nagasaki Shipyard and Machinery Works while construction of the second frigate will take place at the Tamano Shipyard of Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding (MES), which has been chosen by the MoD as the subcontractor for the project.

MES had originally submitted a design and proposal bid for the initial frigate tender. The MoD, however, selected MHI’s design.