MHI hands over eighth Mogami-class frigate to Japan

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems, a subsidiary of Japanese conglomerate Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), has delivered the eighth Mogami-class frigate, JS Yubetsu, to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

As disclosed, the delivery ceremony took place today (June 19, 2025) at the shipbuilder’s Tamano yard. The JMSDF also commissioned the vessel into the fleet. This is the second ship of the same type to be delivered at Tamano, following the delivery of JS Kumano in March 2022.

JS Yubetsu, which was launched in 2023, has an overall length of 133.0 meters, a beam (width) of 16.3 meters, and a depth of 9.0 meters. It is capable of reaching speeds of approximately 30 knots, powered by a hybrid propulsion system consisting of one gas turbine and two diesel engines.

The vessel is equipped with advanced weaponry and defense systems, including a 5-inch 62-caliber naval gun, a SeaRAM (Rolling Airframe Missile) system for close-in defense, two surface-to-surface missile (SSM) launchers, an anti-submarine warfare system, a mine countermeasure system, and a vertical launch system for various guided munitions.

Last month, MHI delivered the seventh ship in this class, JS Niyodo.

These multi-role frigates are specifically designed for more compact operations near Japan’s shores, but they are also capable of undertaking a wide range of missions.

In addition to anti-piracy operations, the ships will be deployed on international peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The frigates will also possess mine countermeasure capabilities, enhancing their versatility in various maritime security operations.