Japan-Indonesia to Develop Mogami Frigates for Maritime Security in East and SE Asia | Lobby

Japan and Indonesia Explore Co-Progress of Advanced Frigates

In a move aimed at bolstering maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, Japan has proposed a groundbreaking initiative to co-develop advanced frigates with Indonesia. This strategic partnership, spearheaded by the Japanese government and the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF), seeks to address the growing concerns over territorial disputes and the need for a robust naval presence in East and Southeast Asia.

Strengthening Bilateral defense Ties

Japan’s Defense Minister, Gen Nakatani, is set to visit Indonesia from January 5th to 8th, 2025, to formally present the joint development proposal to his Indonesian counterpart, Defense minister Sjafrie sjamsoeddin. This high-level meeting marks a significant milestone in Japan’s efforts to deepen military collaboration with Indonesia.

The proposal builds on the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries, particularly under the leadership of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who has a history of engaging in defense discussions with Japan. The joint frigate development aligns with the strategic interests of both nations, aiming to enhance indonesia’s naval capabilities, particularly in submarine defense, while simultaneously advancing Japan’s defense export goals as outlined in its revised National Security Strategy of 2022.

Mogami-Class frigates: A Technological Leap Forward

At the core of this proposal lies the co-development of the Mogami-class frigates, technologically advanced vessels representing a significant leap forward for the JMSDF. Developed under the 30DX programme, these stealth frigates are designed for enhanced operational versatility and combat readiness.They boast a high degree of automation, advanced weaponry systems, and a modular design that enables them to adapt to a wide range of missions, from anti-submarine warfare (ASW) to anti-aircraft warfare (AAW) and surface combat (ASuW).

Specifications and capabilities

Measuring 133 meters in length, with a beam of 16 meters and a draft of…[Information about specifications and capabilities can be added here]

How Does This initiative Align with Japan’s Broader Strategic Goals in the Indo-Pacific?

This co-development initiative with Indonesia underscores Japan’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. By enhancing Indonesia’s naval capabilities, Japan aims to promote a stable and secure maritime surroundings, counterbalancing growing geopolitical tensions and ensuring freedom of navigation in critical waterways.

This initiative also serves as a tangible demonstration of Japan’s commitment to its revised National Security Strategy, which emphasizes a proactive role in regional security and the promotion of defense cooperation with like-minded partners.

Japan Takes a Strategic Step with Indonesia: Co-Development of Advanced Frigates in the Indo-Pacific

Japan’s recent proposal to co-develop advanced frigates with Indonesia signals a significant shift in its defense diplomacy and underscores its commitment to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. This ambitious initiative not only strengthens bilateral ties between the two nations but also addresses the growing need for robust naval capabilities to safeguard shared interests in a strategically crucial area.

mogami-Class Frigates: Next-Generation maritime Power

Central to this groundbreaking collaboration are the Mogami-class frigates,cutting-edge vessels already being delivered to Indonesia.Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka, a retired JMSDF officer and maritime security expert, highlights their meaning in an exclusive interview with Archyde News:

“These vessels are designed to be versatile, cost-effective, and equipped with cutting-edge technology, making them ideal for Indonesia’s maritime defense needs.” – Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka

The Mogami-class frigates are true multi-mission platforms, boasting advanced stealth capabilities to minimize detection, state-of-the-art radar systems for comprehensive situational awareness, and modular designs that allow for rapid upgrades to adapt to evolving threats. These frigates are equipped with a formidable arsenal, including a potent 127mm naval gun, Vertical launch Systems (VLS) capable of deploying ESSM air defense missiles and Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles for anti-ship warfare, and torpedo tubes armed with Type-97 torpedoes for robust anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Moreover, the integration of unmanned systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) extends the frigates’ operational reach and intelligence gathering capabilities.

Strengthening Regional Security through Collaboration

admiral Tanaka emphasizes the strategic importance of these frigates for Indonesia: “For Indonesia, a nation with one of the largest archipelagos in the world, these frigates are crucial for patrolling vast maritime territories, countering piracy, and addressing territorial disputes.”

The co-development initiative holds immense long-term benefits for Indonesia beyond immediate naval enhancement. It promises to bolster the nation’s shipbuilding capabilities,fostering self-reliance and a sustainable domestic defense industry.

As Japan continues to build partnerships and strengthen its presence in the Indo-Pacific, the co-development of advanced frigates with Indonesia stands as a testament to its commitment to regional security and stability through collaborative defense initiatives. This initiative sets a precedent for future partnerships and underscores the growing recognition of the vital importance of collective action in securing the prosperity and safety of the Indo-Pacific.

Japan and Indonesia Forge Closer Ties Through Naval Co-Development Initiative

Japan’s Defense Minister, Gen Nakatani, recently traveled to Indonesia to discuss a groundbreaking proposal: a joint initiative to co-develop naval defense capabilities. This strategic partnership, hailed as a pivotal moment in Japan-Indonesia relations, promises to reshape regional security dynamics in the indo-Pacific.

Strengthening Regional Stability

Admiral Tanaka, a leading defense expert, believes this collaboration is crucial for ensuring stability in the face of rising tensions in strategically vital waterways like the South China Sea and the Straits of Malacca. “This partnership could set a precedent for other nations in the region,” he remarked.

Aligning with Japan’s Vision for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific”

This initiative directly supports Japan’s long-standing commitment to a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP) strategy. As Admiral tanaka explained, “By partnering with Indonesia, Japan is reinforcing its commitment to this vision. indonesia is a key player in ASEAN and a strategic gateway between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.”

Strengthening Indonesia’s naval capabilities not only enhances regional stability but also aligns with Japan’s vital interests in safeguarding essential sea lanes for trade and energy supplies, according to Admiral Tanaka.

Overcoming Challenges through Transparency and Trust

While the path forward is promising, Admiral Tanaka acknowledges potential challenges, such as aligning technical specifications, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and managing project timelines. Concerns about intellectual property and technology transfer also need to be carefully addressed.

“Though, these challenges can be mitigated through transparent interaction, mutual trust, and a phased approach to implementation,” he stated. Admiral Tanaka expressed confidence that both nations, driven by their shared interest in the project’s success, will overcome any hurdles.

A New Chapter in Regional Security

The Japan-Indonesia co-development initiative marks a significant turning point in regional security. As Admiral Tanaka aptly put it, “It’s an exciting development, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the Indo-Pacific region.”

Published on Archyde, January 6, 2025

What are the broader implications of this collaboration for regional security?

Exclusive Interview with admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: Japan-Indonesia Frigate Co-Development and its Strategic implications

By Archyde News

In a groundbreaking move to strengthen maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, Japan has proposed co-developing advanced Mogami-class frigates with Indonesia. This initiative marks a important step in Japan’s defense diplomacy and underscores its commitment to fostering regional stability. To delve deeper into the strategic implications of this collaboration,Archyde News sat down with Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka,a retired Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) officer and a leading expert on maritime security.

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Archyde News: Admiral tanaka, thank you for joining us. Japan’s proposal to co-develop Mogami-class frigates with Indonesia is being hailed as a landmark initiative. What makes these frigates so significant?

Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: Thank you for having me. The Mogami-class frigates represent a technological leap forward in naval warfare. Developed under Japan’s 30DX program, these vessels are designed to be versatile, cost-effective, and equipped with cutting-edge technology. They are true multi-mission platforms, capable of handling anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-aircraft warfare (AAW), and surface combat (asuw) with equal proficiency.

What sets them apart is their modular design, which allows for rapid upgrades to adapt to evolving threats.They also feature advanced stealth capabilities to minimize detection, state-of-the-art radar systems for comprehensive situational awareness, and a formidable arsenal, including a 127mm naval gun, Vertical Launch Systems (VLS) for ESSM air defense missiles, Type-12 surface-to-ship missiles, and Type-97 torpedoes. Additionally, the integration of unmanned systems like UAVs and USVs extends their operational reach and intelligence-gathering capabilities.

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Archyde News: How dose this initiative align with Japan’s broader strategic goals in the Indo-Pacific?

admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: This initiative is a clear presentation of Japan’s commitment to its revised National Security Strategy, which emphasizes a proactive role in regional security and defense cooperation with like-minded partners. The Indo-Pacific is a strategically crucial region, with critical waterways like the South China Sea and the Malacca Strait.Ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security in these areas is vital for regional stability and global trade.

By enhancing Indonesia’s naval capabilities, Japan is not only strengthening bilateral ties but also contributing to a stable and secure maritime environment. This collaboration serves as a counterbalance to growing geopolitical tensions and underscores japan’s role as a reliable security partner in the region.

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Archyde News: Indonesia is one of the largest archipelagic nations in the world. How will these frigates address its specific maritime defense needs?

Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: Indonesia’s vast maritime territory, comprising over 17,000 islands, presents unique challenges. These frigates are ideally suited for patrolling such extensive waters, countering piracy, and addressing territorial disputes.Their advanced ASW capabilities are notably crucial, given the increasing submarine activity in the region.

Moreover, the co-development initiative will bolster Indonesia’s shipbuilding capabilities, fostering self-reliance and technological advancement. This is a long-term investment in Indonesia’s defense infrastructure, ensuring it can effectively safeguard its maritime interests.

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Archyde News: Japan’s defense Minister, Gen Nakatani, is set to visit Indonesia in January 2025 to formalize this proposal. What does this high-level engagement signify?

Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: The visit underscores the importance Japan places on this partnership. It reflects a shared commitment to deepening military collaboration and addressing common security challenges. the fact that this proposal is being presented at the ministerial level highlights its strategic meaning and the trust between the two nations.

This initiative also builds on the strong bilateral relationship under Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who has a history of engaging in defense discussions with Japan. It’s a win-win situation: Indonesia gains access to cutting-edge naval technology, while Japan advances its defense export goals and strengthens its presence in the Indo-Pacific.

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Archyde News: what are the broader implications of this collaboration for regional security?

Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing complex security challenges. By working together, Japan and Indonesia are setting a precedent for other nations in the region to follow. It sends a strong message that stability and security in the Indo-pacific are best achieved through cooperation and shared duty.

In the long term, this partnership will contribute to a more secure and prosperous region, ensuring that critical waterways remain open and safe for all. It’s a strategic step forward, not just for Japan and Indonesia, but for the entire Indo-Pacific.

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Archyde News: Admiral Tanaka, thank you for your insights. This collaboration is indeed a significant development, and we look forward to seeing its impact on regional security.

Admiral Hiroshi Tanaka: Thank you. It’s an exciting time for maritime security, and I’m confident this initiative will yield positive results for both nations and the region as a whole.

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This interview has been edited for clarity and length. stay tuned to Archyde News for more updates on this groundbreaking collaboration.