New Zealand Looks to Boost Navy Amid Escalating Global Tensions

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Mogami-class stealth frigate JS Mikuma at Yokosuka naval base.Photographer: Yuichi Yamazaki/Pool/Getty Images

New Zealand is open to expanding its frigate fleet beyond its current two vessels, with Defence Minister Chris Penk saying “no options are off the table” as the government weighs buying new warships from Japan or the UK.

The government earlier Thursday said it’s looking to replace its two aging Anzac-class frigates, which were both commissioned almost 30 years ago. Japan’s Mogami-class and the UK’s Type 31 warships are the options under consideration.