Foreign media: Japan's "Mogami"-class frigate is leading the British Type 31 frigate in New Zealand's next-generation warship bidding, becoming a top contender to replace two ANZAC-class frigates that entered service in the early 1990s.
New Zealand's 2025 Defense Capability Plan has committed to acquiring more advanced modern warships, with the shortlist now narrowed down to either a customized variant of Japan's "Mogami"-class frigate or the British Type 31 frigate, set to enter service in 2027 and already sold to Poland and Indonesia.
Singaporean analysts point out that the Type 31, with its larger hull and modular design, may offer greater long-term upgrade potential; however, the final decision depends not only on platform performance but also on broader strategic considerations. This potential arms sale comes just weeks after Japan lifted its long-standing arms export ban, and if completed, would represent another major order for Japan's defense industry.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864700032616452/
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