Tokyo has awarded a contract to Austrian company Palfinger Marine to deliver Stern-LARS slipway systems for the nation’s next-generation FFM-class frigates. The order includes equipment for five warships that will be built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries over the period 2027 to 2036.
The Stern-LARS technology is designed for safe and efficient launch and recovery of small craft and unmanned platforms. By eliminating lifting gear and manual handling, the system lowers operational risks while offering faster and easier deployment with only a single operator required.
The Salzburg-based manufacturer previously supplied the same technology to the 12 Mogami-class frigates, forming the foundation for the new class. The upcoming FFM-class, nicknamed “shingata”, expands on the Mogami’s features with a **larger hull—10 meters longer and 1 meter wider—**to accommodate enhanced mission loads.
The upgrades reflect Japan’s push to incorporate more unmanned systems and strengthen multirole operations. The Mogami-class, in service since 2022, supports a wide spectrum of missions including anti-air, surface, submarine warfare, and mine countermeasures. Mitsubishi continues production of the line, with the 11th unit launched recently for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
