Release from 02.09.2025

PALFINGER MARINE Secures Repeat Order for Japan’s New FFM-Class Multirole Frigates

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Building on the successful delivery of our Slipway System technology for all twelve Mogami-class Multirole Frigates, PALFINGER has once again been selected to supply its advanced and globally unique Slipway Systems for Japan’s next-generation FFM-class Multirole Frigates. PALFINGER’s stern launch and recovery systems are designed to optimize the deployment and retrieval of USVs and boats during naval operations, offering efficient and dependable solutions tailored to the needs of Governmental, Navy and Coast Guard vessels.

Salzburg, Austria on September 2, 2025

While maintaining visual similarities with the existing Mogami-class, the next generation of Japan’s FFM-class frigates marks an evolution in this naval design, featuring a hull that is ten meters longer and one meter wider. Following the selection of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) as prime contractor, PALFINGER MARINE has been named to supply the stern launch and recovery systems (Stern-LARS) for the first five vessels of the new frigates, which are scheduled to be built between 2027 and 2036. The scope of the contract includes an updated version of the proven and unique PALFINGER Slipway System technology, previously delivered for the Mogami-class, adapted to meet the demands of the new FFM design.

"We at PALFINGER are proud to have been selected once again as the supplier of our Slipway Systems for the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force’s future Multirole Frigates," says Torstein Svane, Global Key Account & Segment Manager for Governmental, Navy & Coast Guard at PALFINGER MARINE. "Being chosen for the Stern-LARS solution for these vessels demonstrates that PALFINGER has the high-quality products, engineering capabilities, and project execution power necessary to take on the most demanding projects."

Shaping the Future of USV and Boat Handling Offshore
Whether the watercraft is manned or unmanned, PALFINGER’s Slipway Systems eliminate most of the typical challenges and risks associated with launching and recovering unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and watercrafts offshore.

Employing the PALFINGER Slipway System technology offers a range of operational benefits. It significantly improves safety by eliminating the need for lifting, hooks, painter lines, arrester wires, or other mechanical connections, effectively reducing the risk of dangerous situations during launch and recovery operations. At the same time, it increases efficiency and speed by simplifying operations and enabling single operator use, eliminating the need for manual support during launch and recovery.

This not only enhances crew comfort by ensuring smooth and seamless transitions in and out of the slipway – even in challenging weather conditions – but also provides exceptional versatility and flexibility. Thanks to its self-adjusting wheel-drive technology, the system can accommodate a wide variety of watercrafts without requiring any reconfiguration.

PALFINGER is at the forefront of innovation in shipboard slipway and stern entry systems, an essential development field in the naval technology industry. As a pioneer in the industry, PALFINGER takes pride in playing a leading role in this specific field.

ABOUT PALFINGER MARINE 

The international mechanical engineering company PALFINGER is the world's leading provider of innovative crane and lifting solutions. As a global partner for pioneering and reliable deck equipment and lifesaving appliances, PALFINGER MARINE supplies high-quality products to fulfill standardized and customized demands. Supported worldwide by a network of experienced and skilled specialists, we provide flexible and efficient service solutions. Our portfolio gives a competitive edge for customers in the maritime and offshore industry. 


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Picture of a Mogami-class Frigate © Ministry of Defense website (https:www.mod.go.jpmsdfenequipment)
2 102 x 1 500 © Ministry of Defense website (https://www.mod.go.jp/msdf/en/equipment/)


Contact

Palfinger MARINE EN
Eva-Maria Wimmer| Marketing & Communication | PALFINGER MARINE
T +43 662 4684 | marketing-marine@palfinger.com

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