Key facts
- New Zealand is considering adopting Japan's Mogami-class frigate.
- Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated the decision will be taken seriously.
- Interoperability with Australia's navy will be a consideration.
- Peters indicated Japan and New Zealand should play a larger security role.
New Zealand is set to "seriously" explore the adoption of Japan's Mogami-class frigate for its naval fleet, according to the country's Foreign Minister Winston Peters. Peters indicated that interoperability with Australia's navy would be a significant factor in the decision-making process. He also suggested that both Japan and New Zealand should assume a more prominent role in regional security.