Japan’s First Mogami-Class Frigate Fitted with Mk 41 VLS Marks Major Leap in Maritime Defense

Japan has reached a significant milestone in strengthening its naval defense capabilities by equipping the first Mogami-class multirole frigate with the American-made Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS). This new development represents a key evolution in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s (JMSDF) vision of fielding advanced, compact, stealthy warships in the face of growing maritime threats.

The first ship to receive the VLS is JS Niyodo (FFM-7), the seventh vessel in the 12-ship Mogami-class program. The 16-cell Mk 41 launcher has been installed at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ (MHI) Nagasaki Shipyard, positioned right in front of the ship’s bridge as originally intended in the design plans.

Mk 41 VLS: A New Offensive Backbone

The Mk 41 VLS is a modular, multi-purpose launching system capable of firing a range of missiles for anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-submarine operations. By integrating this system, the Niyodo can now deploy guided missiles that significantly boost its combat effectiveness and broaden its mission capabilities. These include intercepting enemy missiles, targeting warships, and launching anti-submarine weapons.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense had allocated 8.4 billion yen (around $57 million) in its FY2021 supplementary budget for acquiring the first two VLS units for JS Niyodo and its sister ship, JS Yubetsu (FFM-8). With both systems now delivered, all Mogami-class ships from the seventh vessel onward will be inducted with VLS pre-installed, reflecting a more integrated and combat-ready approach.

The Mogami-Class Frigates: Japan’s Future Workhorse

Designed by MHI, the Mogami-class FFMs are compact, stealthy, and highly capable vessels suited for diverse missions, from patrolling contested waters to conducting anti-mine operations. These ships mark a shift from Japan’s earlier model of large, single-role warships to a new generation of multi-mission frigates optimized for high readiness and versatility.

Key Specifications:

• Standard Displacement: 3,900 tons

• Full Load Displacement: 5,500 tons

• Length: Approximately 130 meters

• Speed: Over 30 knots

• Helicopter Capacity: 1 onboard helicopter

• Unmanned Systems: UUV (Unmanned Underwater Vehicle) and USV (Unmanned Surface Vehicle) capable

• Weapons: 16-cell Mk 41 VLS, 127mm naval gun, anti-ship missiles, and CIWS (Close-In Weapon System)

What makes the Mogami-class unique is its hybrid approach to manned and unmanned operations. Each frigate is capable of deploying an unmanned surface or underwater vehicle, marking the first time such systems are being integrated directly into Japanese frigates.

Changing Defense Priorities

Originally, Japan planned to build 22 Mogami-class ships, but the plan was revised to just 12, with the remaining fleet slots being reserved for an upgraded class known as the "New FFM." Starting from FY2024, Tokyo will begin acquiring this new generation of frigates, which will be larger, more powerful, and still based on the Mogami design. The first of these is scheduled for commissioning in fiscal year 2028.

This change aligns with Japan's evolving defense strategy, especially with growing maritime tensions in the East China Sea and Nansei island chain. As China expands its naval footprint and Russia strengthens its presence through joint exercises, Japan aims to field faster, smarter, and better-armed vessels to monitor and secure its maritime borders.

A Global Player in Frigate Exports?

In a notable international development, MHI has also been shortlisted by the Australian government to provide a future general-purpose frigate under the SEA 3000 program. MHI is pitching its "New FFM" design, showcasing Japan’s ambition not just to defend its own waters but also to become a competitive exporter in the global naval market.