The Mogami-class is a modern, stealth-oriented, multi-mission frigate developed for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and constructed in collaboration with Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding, the class represents a significant evolution in Japanese naval engineering, striking a balance between advanced combat capabilities and high automation and modularity. The project is based on the 30DX initiative and is named after Japanese rivers, following JMSDF traditions.
Country users: Australia, Japan
Technical Data
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Design
Mogami-class is a stealth-focused frigate with an innovative hull design emphasizing low radar cross-section and minimized infrared and acoustic signatures. The external surfaces are sloped and enclosed to reduce detection, and the integrated mast conceals sensors and communication systems. Displacing approximately 5,500 tons at full load and measuring 133 meters in length, it represents a shift toward lighter, smarter naval combatants.
Mogami-class is notable for its exceptional automation levels, allowing operation with a minimal crew complement of around 90 personnel. This is achieved through centralized ship control systems, integrated bridge-to-CIC operations, and machine-assisted diagnostics. A hallmark feature of the design is the internal mission bay and stern ramp under the flight deck. This system facilitates deployment and retrieval of unmanned vehicles and RHIBs, providing expeditionary flexibility and supporting mine warfare, reconnaissance, and special operations without requiring port facilities.
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Weapons
Mogami-class is armed with a full suite of offensive and defensive weaponry scaled to fulfill multiple combat roles. The primary gun system is the BAE Systems Mk 45 Mod 4 127 mm naval gun, capable of firing long-range guided munitions. For surface strike missions, the class carries two quadruple launchers for the Type 17 (SSM-2) anti-ship missiles—domestically engineered to achieve high precision and resistance to countermeasures.
Mogami-class is equipped for layered air defense. Initially delivered without vertical launch systems, newer vessels are built with 16-cell Mk 41 VLS amidships, with retrofit programs underway for earlier units. These cells support the Type 03 Chu-SAM Kai surface-to-air missile and the Type 07 VLA ASROC for anti-submarine engagements. For close-in defense, the ship mounts a SeaRAM CIWS with an 11-cell launcher capable of intercepting incoming missiles and aircraft in the terminal phase.
Mogami-class also features two triple-tube HOS-303 torpedo launchers loaded with Type 12 lightweight torpedoes, enabling localized ASW protection. The ships are further outfitted with two 12.7 mm remotely operated weapon stations and can conduct limited mine-laying missions via the mission bay.
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Sensors, Electronic Systems, and Radars
Mogami-class is equipped with a comprehensive and technologically advanced sensor suite, anchored by the OPY-2 AESA radar. Developed from Japan's indigenous AESA technologies used in fighter aircraft, this radar offers superior target tracking, fire-control support, and resistance to jamming. Its X-band configuration allows simultaneous tracking of surface, air, and missile threats.
Mogami-class incorporates the OAX-3 electro-optical and infrared system for passive target detection, identification, and tracking. Subsurface detection capabilities are robust, comprising the OQQ-25 sonar suite, which integrates a variable-depth sonar and a towed array system for deep-water ASW, as well as the OQQ-11 sonar for mine detection in littoral zones.
Mogami-class utilizes the OYQ-1 Combat Management System, interfaced with OYX-1 operator consoles that consolidate navigation, combat, and engineering data. For electronic warfare, the NOLQ-3E system offers comprehensive electronic support and countermeasure capabilities, encompassing signal detection, analysis, jamming, and radar deception. Chaff and decoy launchers complement the ship’s hard-kill systems, offering another layer of defense against precision-guided munitions.
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Engine
Mogami-class is powered by a Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion system. This includes a single Rolls-Royce MT30 marine gas turbine, producing up to 36 MW, and two MAN 12V28/33D STC diesel engines. The twin-shaft configuration, equipped with controllable-pitch propellers, delivers a maximum speed exceeding 30 knots and optimized fuel efficiency for long-range cruising.
Mogami-class features an integrated platform management system (IPMS) that automates monitoring and control of all engineering systems, including propulsion, power generation, damage control, and auxiliary systems. This enhances operational reliability while significantly reducing manpower needs and maintenance demands.
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Aircraft and Helicopter Capability
Mogami-class is configured to support airborne operations with a full-length flight deck and enclosed hangar capable of accommodating a single SH-60K or SH-60L helicopter. These helicopters are typically equipped for ASW, maritime patrol, and search-and-rescue roles, extending the ship’s surveillance and strike range.
Mogami-class also incorporates a rear launch and recovery ramp beneath the flight deck, providing seamless deployment of unmanned systems such as UUVs and USVs. This feature underscores the class’s utility in mine countermeasure operations and special mission support, particularly in shallow coastal and archipelagic environments
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