Australia is now set to operate a fleet of Mogami class frigates through a first-of-its kind defense export deal for post-World War II Japan.

Japan relationship has evolved rapidly in the past decade – and this could be threatened if something doesn’t go right with the deal.

Against this backdrop, the frigate deal serves as a diplomatic balm. It is both a reassurance to Tokyo and a statement of intent that Australia sees its future defence firmly embedded in the Indo-Pacific, and not just in trans-Atlantic alliances.