Japan is one of two finalists in the competition to build Australia’s next general-purpose frigates, in what could potentially be one of the biggest contracts ever for the country’s fledgling defense industry.
The upgraded Mogami class from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and the Meko A-200 from Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems have been shortlisted over Spanish and South Korean contenders for the next round of a multibillion-dollar program to replace the Royal Australian Navy’s aging Anzac-class warships, sources said.
Several Australian media confirmed the decision by Australia’s National Security Committee, adding that final selection is expected next year, although it is unclear whether this will happen before or after a general election that is due by May.
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