Japan launches final Mogami-class frigate

Japan's final Mogami-class frigate, seen here at its launch ceremony on 22 December 2025. (JMSDF)

Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has launched the 12th Mogami-class guided-missile frigate on order for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

The vessel, which will be in service as JS Yoshii once commissioned, entered the water on 22 December during a ceremony at MHI's Nagasaki shipyard, according to an announcement by the JMSDF on the same day.

Yoshii is the last of 12 Mogami-class frigates ordered under a programme to replace the JMSDF's ageing Abukuma-class frigates, which have been in service since the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The replacement programme's first-of-class, JS Mogami , was commissioned in April 2022 and eight vessels have since joined the fleet.

The Mogami class has a standard displacement of about 4,000 tonnes, an overall length of 132 m, and a beam of 16 m.

Propulsion is provided by two MAN 12V28/33D STC diesel engines and a Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine, enabling a top speed of 30 kt.

Each frigate accommodates a crew of around 90.

Armament on the Mogami class includes a BAE Systems 127 mm naval gun, a vertical launch system (VLS) for the Type 03 medium-range surface-to-air missile, and two quad launchers for anti-ship missiles.

For close-in defence, the frigates are fitted with the Raytheon SeaRAM system, which deploys RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Missiles.

Anti-submarine warfare capabilities comprise six 324 mm torpedo tubes, the NEC OQQ-25 variable depth sonar, and facilities for operating a submarine-hunting helicopter.

Yoshii is expected to enter service with the JMSDF by 2027.

For more information, please seeAustralia selects upgraded Mogami class for frigate programme .