
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles on Friday toured a Japanese navy frigate of the same Japan-made model that Australia has chosen for its new fleet, as the two countries step up military ties to deter China's growing influence.
Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani hosted Marles for the visit aboard the JS Mikuma, a month after Australia chose Mogami-class frigates produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to replace Australia's aging fleet of ANZAC-class warships.