Launch of Japan’s Final Mogami-Class Frigate
Overview of the Mogami-Class Program
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has successfully launched the twelfth and final Mogami-class guided-missile frigate for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The vessel, designated JS Yoshii, was launched during a ceremony at MHI’s Nagasaki shipyard on December 22, 2025.
This launch marks the culmination of a significant modernization initiative aimed at phasing out the aging Abukuma-class frigates, which have served since the late 1980s and early 1990s. The first ship in the Mogami-class, JS Mogami, was commissioned in April 2022, and a total of eight frigates have been integrated into the JMSDF fleet thus far.
Vessel Specifications
- Displacement: Approximately 4,000 tonnes
- Dimensions:
- Length: 132 meters
- Beam: 16 meters
- Propulsion:
- Two MAN 12V28/33D STC diesel engines
- One Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine
- Top Speed: 30 knots
- Crew Capacity: Approximately 90 personnel
Armament and Combat Capabilities
The Mogami-class frigates are equipped with an array of advanced armaments and systems designed to enhance their operational effectiveness:
- Primary Armament: BAE Systems 127 mm naval gun
- Missile Systems:
- Vertical Launch System (VLS) for Type 03 medium-range surface-to-air missiles
- Two quad launchers for anti-ship missiles
- Close-In Defense: Raytheon SeaRAM system utilizing RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Missiles
- Anti-Submarine Warfare:
- Six 324 mm torpedo tubes
- NEC OQQ-25 variable depth sonar
- Facilities for deploying a submarine-hunting helicopter
Strategic Importance
The introduction of JS Yoshii represents a critical enhancement to the JMSDF’s naval capabilities, contributing to regional maritime security and Japan’s defense posture. With its advanced systems, the Mogami-class is anticipated to operate within multi-domain environments, addressing both surface and subsurface threats.
Yoshii is projected to be fully operational by 2027, further solidifying Japan’s naval modernization efforts.
For additional insights into global naval developments, readers are encouraged to explore related content on upgraded frigate programs, including the recent decisions made by Australia regarding the Mogami-class.
