Indonesia, Japan to Resume Joint Warship Development

Indonesia and Japan have agreed to resume their suspended joint warship development project, following discussions between Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen in Jakarta.

Indonesian Defense Ministry Spokesperson Frega Wenas confirmed that the two ministers agreed to resume negotiations for the joint development of warships, including determining the specifics of production and equipment involvement.

Japan has proposed the design of Mogami-class frigates, which are multi-role warships designed for modern combat, as the basis for the collaboration. Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto is reportedly interested in the design.

The Mogami-class frigates, currently in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), feature stealth capabilities, electronic warfare systems, and versatile operational capabilities. These vessels are equipped with sonar systems, air defense technology, and an integrated weapons platform, including a 127mm main gun, VLS (Vertical Launch System) missiles, and anti-ship missiles. With a displacement of 5,500 tons and a speed of 30 knots, these frigates are designed to handle a range of missions, from anti-submarine warfare to land attacks.

The proposed joint warship development aims to elevate the defense cooperation between Japan and Indonesia, particularly in light of shared regional concerns. Both countries have territorial disputes with China—Indonesia over the Natuna Islands in the South China Sea and Japan over the Diaoyu Islands (Senkakus) in the East China Sea—prompting them to seek stronger defense partnerships.

The warship development project had faced delays under Indonesia’s previous administration, led by President Joko Widodo, who prioritized domestic concerns such as the planned relocation of the capital. Additionally, Japan's export ban on domestically built warships posed another challenge. However, both nations have expressed their intention to bypass this restriction by co-developing warships, with the initial vessel expected to be built in a Japanese shipyard.

While the project is still in the early stages, the first warship could take at least three years to materialize. Discussions are ongoing regarding the potential involvement of local shipyards and the integration of domestic content, which would be important for Indonesia.