Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles in Malaysia and agreed to accelerate efforts toward concluding a contract for the Maritime Self-Defense Force's upgraded Mogami-class frigates, which Australia has decided to purchase. The two shared serious concerns about China's aggressive maritime expansion in the South China Sea and confirmed their intention to deepen defense cooperation. On the same day, Koizumi also met with New Zealand's Defense Minister Judith Collins to proceed with talks on potential purchases of the same frigates.
On November 3, 2025, Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles in Malaysia. The two agreed to accelerate work toward concluding a contract for the Maritime Self-Defense Force's upgraded Mogami-class frigates, which Canberra has decided to purchase. This upgraded version aims to enhance defensive capabilities.
During the talks, they shared serious concerns about China's aggressive maritime expansion in the South China Sea. The ministers confirmed their intention to deepen defense cooperation and agreed to aim for an early meeting among the defense ministers of Japan, Australia, and the United States. This could further strengthen trilateral ties.
On the same day, Koizumi also met with New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins. They agreed to proceed with talks on New Zealand's potential purchase of the upgraded Mogami-class frigates. Collins expressed her enthusiasm for concluding an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement by December, which would allow the Self-Defense Forces and the New Zealand military to share food, fuel, and other supplies.
These agreements highlight progress in defense cooperation between Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, responding to evolving regional security dynamics.