Japan’s Frigate Diplomacy — and What It Could Mean for Taiwan
Japan is exploring the possibility of becoming a significant defense partner for Taiwan by evaluating the transfer of its Mogami-class frigate technology. This shift follows recent changes in Japan's defense export policies and a more hawkish political environment. However, Japan must navigate its legal and political frameworks while facing potential backlash from China.
- ▪Taiwan is considering Japan's upgraded Mogami-class frigate for its next-generation surface combatant.
- ▪Japan has relaxed restrictions on transferring warship blueprints to Taiwan, although officials have not confirmed this.
- ▪Recent political changes in Japan have allowed for broader defense exports, including to Taiwan.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Asia Defense | Security | East Asia Japan’s Frigate Diplomacy — and What It Could Mean for Taiwan Can Japan become a second major democratic partner for Taiwan’s defense industry? By Ethan Connell and Jonathan Walberg May 25, 2026 The JS Mogami, first ship of the Mogami class, at sea on June 10, 2022. Credit: Japanese Defense Ministry Subscribe for ads-free reading In mid-April 2026, Taiwanese media reported that the Republic of China (ROC) Navy is evaluating Japan’s upgraded Mogami-class frigate, known in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force as the New FFM, as a candidate for its planned 6,000-ton next-generation surface combatant. The reporting cited unnamed sources and suggested that Tokyo had quietly relaxed restrictions on transferring warship blueprints to Taipei.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Diplomat.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Diplomat
