(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I have an announcement on Australia’s next-generation general purpose frigates. On August 5, the Government of Australia announced that, of the two candidates submitted by Japan and Germany, it had selected the upgraded Japanese FFM “MOGAMI” class frigate, the 06FFM, for its next-generation general purpose frigates. Regarding this, last night, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Marles informed me directly of the decision reached at the National Security Committee. I stated that it would be an immense pleasure to advance this project with Minister Marles. Minister Marles stated that the FFM “MOGAMI” class frigate is the most suitable and best frigate for Australia, and we shared in this joy together. I believe this selection is a testament to Australia’s trust in Japan’s advanced technological capabilities, as well as to its recognition of the importance of interoperability between the Self-Defense Forces and the Australian Defence Force. This outcome marks a major step forward in elevating security cooperation between Japan and Australia, which are special strategic partners, to new heights, and Japan welcomes the Australian Government’s decision. Japan has continuously built 12 FFM “MOGAMI” class frigates so far, and plans to build 12 of the 06FFM in FY2024 and beyond. Accordingly, we have a robust construction base that ensures the frigates are delivered at the time demanded by the Royal Australian Navy. In addition, the 06FFM proposed by Japan is an exceptionally capable vessel equipped with excellent stealth performance, speed to accompany U.S. carrier strike groups, and highly reliable weapons systems ensuring interoperability with the U.S. Navy. Furthermore, through automation and lean manning, the frigate can be operated with far fewer crew members than conventional frigates. It is indeed a state-of-the-art frigate that brings together the outstanding technological capabilities of Japan’s defense industry. In addition to lean manning and advanced capabilities, my understanding is that the Government of Japan’s commitment to the success of this program, with the public and private sectors working together, was highly valued by the Government of Australia. For example, a public-private joint committee co-chaired by the Administrative Vice-Minister of Defense and the Chairman of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was established. I attended its first meeting. The Ministry of Defense and relevant companies, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, as well as relevant ministries and agencies have sought to realize this transfer through a public-private partnership. It is thanks to the tireless efforts of everyone involved that we have achieved this “mogami,” in other words, “saijo” (another way of reading “mogami”) or best possible outcome. I would like to once again express my respect and appreciation for the efforts made by all those who have been working on this project. Going forward, it is necessary to carry out further discussions with the Government of Australia toward concluding the final contract, which is expected to take place early next year. We will continue to coordinate closely with relevant ministries and agencies as well as companies and ensure that the project is successful through a public-private, “all-Japan” approach.