Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has secured a significant A$10 billion contract to deliver new frigates to Australia, marking a milestone in defense collaboration between the two nations. The upgraded Mogami-class frigate will enhance Australia’s naval capabilities, boasting a longer operational range and advanced undersea warfare and air defense capabilities. This deal is pivotal for Japan, being its largest defense export since lifting a ban on military exports in 2014, reinforcing security ties with Australia amid regional geopolitical challenges. The partnership is expected to improve interoperability with the United States, reflecting a strategic alignment among allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region.