Amid the ongoing geopolitical friction and conflicts involving Iran, the United States Navy finds itself under intense strategic pressure. This operational strain previously forced the US to pull back a warship from the South China Sea. To restore its naval dominance and expand the fleet, President Donald Trump is actively pursuing decisive measures. The American administration is seriously evaluating a plan to incorporate foreign-built warships into its naval inventory, with Japan's Mogami-class vessels emerging as a top contender.
The Finland Model and Foreign Shipyards
According to a report by USNI News, the US Navy is conducting a detailed study under a special directive issued by President Donald Trump. This initiative is being referred to as the Finland Model. Under this framework, the initial batch of two warships would be constructed directly in foreign shipyards to accelerate their induction into active service. Subsequently, the manufacturing responsibility for future vessels would transition to domestic American shipyards, thereby revitalizing the nation's indigenous shipbuilding industrial base.
Why the US Eyes the Mogami Class
From deep-sea submarines lurking beneath the surface to missile threats descending from the sky, Japan's Mogami-class warship possesses the capability to counter multiple hazards independently. This exceptional combat effectiveness is the primary reason why the world's most powerful navy is casting its gaze toward this advanced Japanese frigate to make up for its current shortage of hulls.
Stealth Design to Evade Radars
The most distinctive feature of the Mogami class is its advanced and unconventional exterior architecture. Spanning roughly 133 meters in length and displacing nearly 3900 tonnes, the vessel is structured to minimize flat and vertical surfaces. The deliberate purpose of this specialized stealth design is to confuse enemy radar systems and obscure the ship's physical presence, making it extremely difficult for adversaries to lock onto it during combat.
Reduced Crew and High Efficiency
Operating warships of this magnitude typically requires a crew of hundreds of sailors. However, the Mogami can be efficiently managed by a lean crew of just 90 personnel. Advanced automation and machinery significantly reduce operational expenses. Furthermore, the ship utilizes a combined propulsion system featuring Rolls-Royce gas turbines and two robust diesel engines, generating nearly 70,000 horsepower to propel the vessel across the water at speeds approaching 55 kilometers per hour.
A Menace to Submarines and Sea Mines
When it comes to detecting underwater threats, the Mogami stands unmatched. It is equipped with advanced sonar technology, torpedoes, and anti-submarine helicopters designed to track and destroy hidden enemy submersibles. Additionally, the vessel employs specialized equipment to locate and neutralize dangerous naval mines scattered beneath the surface.
Formidable Armament and Firepower
To devastate opposing targets, the Mogami features a massive 127mm naval gun mounted at the front, capable of obliterating both coastal and maritime installations. To sink enemy vessels, the frigate is armed with eight lethal Type-17 anti-ship missiles. Meanwhile, incoming aerial threats can be neutralized using the SeaRAM defense system and a 16-cell vertical launching system.
A Practical Option for American Defenses
With the US Navy eager to ramp up its vessel count while domestic shipyards struggle to meet production timelines, the Mogami frigate offers an ideal solution. Its small crew requirement, modern design, low cost, and established production readiness make it a compelling choice. If the US proceeds with this option, it could modify the Japanese design to integrate seamlessly with standard American combat systems and radar networks.
