Japanese conglomerate Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has held a launching and naming ceremony for the eleventh Mogami-class frigate built for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
As informed, the ceremony took place at the company’s Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works shipyard on July 2, 2025. The vessel was named JS Tatsuta, honoring Tatsuta River, a tributary of the Yamato River system.
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三菱重工業株式会社 長崎造船所で #護衛艦 「 #たつた 」の命名・進水式が行われました。?? 「たつた」は奈良県生駒市付近を流れる大和川の支流の名称であり「竜田川」に由来しています。 #海上自衛隊 #FFM #命名・進水式 pic.twitter.com/aFCUp6KxFW
After outfitting work on the hull, engine, electrical equipment, and weapons is completed, the ship is scheduled to be handed over to the Ministry of Defense in fiscal year 2026.
The event follows the naming and launching ceremony for the sister ship, JS Nagara, held in December 2024 in Nagasaki.
The next-generation Mogami-class frigates are designed with a length of 130 meters and a width of 16 meters.
These vessels are powered by a combined diesel and gas propulsion system, featuring two MAN 12V28/33D STC diesel engines and one Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine, enabling them to achieve a top speed of at least 30 knots.
These multirole 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.