30FF

The original intention was to use the 30FF model. The 30FF design looked similar to the United States Navy's Freedom-class littoral combat ship with an integrated mast. Its armament included a 5"/54 caliber Mark 45 gun, two remote weapon stations between the bridge and main gun, a SeaRAM battery above the helicopter hangar, and an onboard helicopter. The length of this version of the vessel was to be 120 metres (393 ft 8 in), with a max beam of 18 metres (59 ft 1 in), and a displacement of about 3,000 metric tons (3,000 long tons). The 30FF design had a planned maximum speed of 40 knots (74 km/h; 46 mph) and accommodated a crew of about 100.^[1][9]

30DX

The 30DX model was eventually chosen to be constructed. The 30DX design, although modern, is more conservative compared to the 30FF's more radical approach. The three main factors for the design change were due to the need for affordability, miniaturization/automation, and multi-mission capabilities.^[1] The vessel has a length of 130 metres (426 ft 6 in), a breadth of 16 metres (52 ft 6 in), a standard displacement of 3,900 metric tons (3,800 long tons) with a full load displacement of about 5,500 metric tons (5,400 long tons). It has a maximum speed of over 30 knots (56 km/h; 35 mph).^[10] The frigates will be powered by a Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine.^[11]

Weapons for the 30DX include a Mk 45 gun, two remote weapon stations above the bridge, a 16-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) at the bow, 8 anti-ship missiles, one SeaRAM, an SH-60L helicopter, torpedoes, and decoy launchers. Another capability is to deploy and recover unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV), unmanned surface vehicles (USV),^[12] and sea mines from the rear ramp beneath the helo deck.^[8] The 30DX is expected to use a naval version of the JGSDF's Type 03 Chū-SAM long-range AA missile.^[13]

The stealthy design of both models is based on the research and development lessons learned from the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin, then: ATD-X, stealth fighter technology demonstrator, as both platforms are designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.^[10][14] Along with stealth capabilities, the frigate emphasizes a high level of automation. This allows the frigate to possess a small crew size of only 90 personnel when compared to the crew complement of other ships of similar size.^[15]

Automation

At Sea Air Space 2019, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries revealed their 'Advanced Integrated CIC' for the vessel. It will combine the wheelhouse, the managing and situational awareness room, the engine and power control room, and combat information center within a large 360-degree circular screen wall. It can display panoramic views around the ship without a blind spot on the screen, and will utilize augmented reality technology to discriminate among the objects shown and to navigate the ship.^[15]

Australia

The FFM design was shortlisted as a contender for the Royal Australian Navy's new general purpose frigates.^[42] Australia plans to acquire eleven frigates.^[42] The first batch of ships will be built overseas before transitioning to an Australian build.^[43]

The Mogami is competing with Germany's MEKO A-200, South Korea’s FFX Batch II/III, and Spain’s Alfa 3000 as proposed entries for RAN's next frigate.^[44]

Indonesia

Japan plans to export four frigates to Indonesia either on late 2023 or early 2024.^[45] Another four will be built in Indonesia under a ¥300 billion contract under PT PAL.^[46][45] In March 2021, Japan and Indonesia signed a military cooperation agreement, which reinforces the delivery.^[47]