Australia has confirmed it will equip its next generation of warships with a proven propulsion system. This decision secures a key component for a major naval modernization effort announced last year.

The Rolls-Royce MT30 marine gas turbine will power Australia’s future general-purpose frigates, a fleet expected to include up to 11 ships. The decision succeeds Canberra’s 2025 move to acquire an upgraded version of Japan’s Mogami-class frigates to replace its aging vessels.

The Royal Australian Navy will use the same propulsion system already deployed by Japan, keeping the MT30 at the core of the platform. This approach lowers integration risks and ensures compatibility with an existing, operational design.

Under the plan, the first three vessels will be built in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries before being delivered to Australia. The delivery date for the lead ship is scheduled for 2029, with service starting in 2030.

MT30 engine – built for speed and power

MT30 is an advanced marine gas turbine that delivers high output while remaining compact. In the Mogami-class configuration, it operates with two diesel engines and delivers an aggregate power of 70,000 horsepower. Consequently, the vessels can travel at speeds faster than 35 mph.

Additionally, mtu Series 4000 diesel generator sets for onboard electrical supply will be installed on the modified frigates. Rolls-Royce Power Systems will supply these systems via Daihatsu InfinEarth, a licensed partner. From sophisticated fighting systems to navigation, the propulsion and power systems work together to support a variety of onboard tasks.

According to Rolls-Royce, the MT30 engine provides high power density, as well as efficiency and reliability throughout the ship’s lifespan. The engine is designed, assembled, and tested in Rolls-Royce’s plant in Bristol.

Global track record across navies

Many navies are currently using the MT30 engine. It is utilized by the United Kingdom in its Type 26 frigates and Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. It is used in the United States’ Zumwalt-class destroyers and Freedom-class littoral warfare ships.

The system is also deployed by the Republic of Korea Navy on its Daegu-class and Chungnam-class frigates, and by the Italian Navy on its new multi-purpose amphibious ships. Australia is already integrating the MT30 into its Hunter-class frigates under a separate program linked to the AUKUS partnership. Using the same engine across multiple ship classes will simplify maintenance, training, and logistics for the Royal Australian Navy.

Strategic partnership and regional focus

The Frigate program is estimated to be worth around 10 billion Australian dollars (around $7.1 billion). It marks an important milestone in the partnership between Australia and Japan. The project aims to strengthen regional security using shared technology and industrial cooperation.

Rolls-Royce highlighted its long-standing relationship with Australia in its announcement. “For over 100 years, Rolls-Royce has been an integral partner delivering power and propulsion to Australia for air, land, and sea,” said Alex Zino, director of business development and future programs at Rolls-Royce Defence.

“We are delighted to continue this long-standing partnership by powering their new general-purpose frigates with our MT30 engine. We are pleased to support this collaboration between two nations that are combining capabilities to enhance the security across the region.”