Austrian manufacturer Palfinger Marine has been awarded a contract to equip Japan’s future FFM-class frigates with advanced stern launch and recovery systems. Built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries between 2027 and 2036, the vessels will feature Palfinger’s technology to streamline deployment of boats and unmanned systems. Unlike older methods, Stern-LARS allows safer and faster operations with minimal crew, a vital feature as Japan expands unmanned capabilities. Palfinger earlier outfitted the 12 Mogami-class frigates, while the upcoming FFM-class will surpass them in size and versatility. Enhancements in the new frigates underscore Tokyo’s strategy to modernize its naval fleet for anti-submarine, anti-surface, mine countermeasures, and unmanned missions.
