In 2015 the Japanese defense budget allocated funds to study the construction of a new “compact-type hull destroyer with additional multi-functional capabilities” as well as a new radar system for the destroyer. In the same year Mitsubishi Heavy Industries unveiled the frigate's first concept model which they have been developing with their own funds. In August 2017, the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency selected MHI and Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding as the prime contractor and subcontractor to construct the frigate. In addition, the agency also selected a completely new design of the vessel. The new ship is set to replace the Asagiri-class destroyer and Abukuma-class destroyer escort. Construction of the 30DX is to begin in 2018. A total of twenty-two units is planned by 2032 and eight are currently under contract; a pair to be built each year.
Design
The original design to be used was the 30FF model. The ship's design looks similar to the 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 above the helicopter hangar, and a helicopter. The length of the vessel is 120 m, with a max beam of 18 m, and displacement of about 3000 metric tons. It would be able to reach 40 knots and accommodate a crew of about 100. However, the 30DX model was later chosen to be constructed. The 30DX design is more conservative compared to the 30FF's more radical approach. The three main factors for the design change is due to the need for affordability, miniaturization/automation, and multi-mission capabilities. The vessel has an overall length of 130 m, breadth of 16 m, a standard displacement of 3900 tons with a full load displacement of about 5500 tons, and a maximum speed of over 30 knots. Weapons include a Mk 45 gun, two remote weapon station above the bridge, 16 Mk 41 VLS at the bow, 8 anti-ship missiles, one SeaRAM, an SH-60L helicopter, torpedoes, and decoy launchers. It can also deploy and recover UUV, USV, and sea mines from the rear ramp beneath the helideck. It is also expected to use a naval version of the Type 03 Chū-SAM. The stealthy design of both models is based on the research and development from the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin stealth fighter technology demonstrator, as both platforms are designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Along with stealth capabilities, the frigate also emphasizes on having a high level of automation. This allows the frigate to possess a low crew size of only 90 personnel compared to other ships of similar size. The frigates will be powered by a Rolls-Royce MT30Gas Turbine. The overall design of the 30DX is to achieve a frigate sized vessel with the capabilities similar to the Akizuki-class destroyer. At Sea Air Space 2019, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries revealed 'Advanced Integrated CIC' for the vessel. According to the report, it combined wheelhouse, managing and situational awareness room, engine and power control room, and combat information center with a large 360-degree circular screen wall. It can display panoramic views around the ship without a blind spot on the screen, and also utilized the augmented reality technology to discriminate the objects and navigate the ship.
Export
Both frigate designs has been showcased in four naval exhibitions to attract potential export customers. The 30FF has been shown in PACIFIC 2015 as a contender for Australian Navy's SEA5000 ASW Frigate Program and in Sea Air Space 2017. The 30DX design has been shown in Sea Air Space 2018 and Euronaval 2018.
