Doha: The defense ministers of Japan, Australia, and New Zealand have reached an agreement to enhance trilateral cooperation on defense equipment. Shinjiro Koizumi, Japan's defense minister, met with his Australian and New Zealand counterparts, Richard Marles and Chris Penk, on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. This meeting marked the first occasion where the three nations convened at the defense minister level.

According to Qatar News Agency, Koizumi emphasized that this collaboration serves as a significant opportunity to foster prosperity, peace, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan and Australia have already committed to jointly developing a next-generation frigate for the Royal Australian Navy. This new vessel will be based on an upgraded version of the Mogami-class frigate currently operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Additionally, New Zealand has shortlisted the upgraded Mogami-class frigate along with a British warship as finalists for its next-generation frigate program. A decision regarding the final selection is anticipated by the end of 2027.