Japan views supplying frigates to New Zealand as a tool to strengthen deterrence.
Cabinet Secretary Toshio Kinbara stated that if Japan supplies the "Mogami"-class frigates to New Zealand, it could enhance operational interoperability among navies and thereby strengthen deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
He said during a press briefing: "This will help improve operational interoperability among the three countries, including the Australian Navy, which has positive implications for strengthening deterrence in the Indo-Pacific."
Kinbara pointed out that New Zealand's interest in Japan’s frigates is largely due to Australia having previously selected this class of vessel, creating potential for trilateral defense cooperation among Tokyo, Canberra, and Wellington.
New Zealand announced on May 7 that it is considering the upgraded "Mogami"-class frigate as one of the potential options to replace its aging fleet, with British frigates also under consideration. New Zealand plans to make a final decision by the end of 2027.
Source: sputniknews
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864893897671753/
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