New Zealand is considering purchasing advanced warships from Japan or the United Kingdom to replace aging frigates and modernise its defence capability. Coverage across outlets says the government is focused on options including Japan’s Mogami-class vessels and the UK’s Type 31 frigates, as part of efforts to update a fleet that includes the two ANZAC-class frigates commissioned in the early 1990s.
Reporting also indicates that New Zealand is in discussions with allies about potential replacement and follow-on service arrangements. The South China Morning Post says talks involve the Royal Australian Navy and the UK’s Royal Navy, reflecting New Zealand’s role in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network with Australia, the United States, the UK and Canada.
In parallel, Japanese reporting frames the Mogami-class as a leading contender, noting New Zealand’s 2025 Defence Capability Plan commits to replacing its ANZAC-class frigates. The Japan Times adds that a potential deal would build on recent cooperation between Tokyo and Canberra related to the first ships in Australia’s planned Mogami-class order.
