Japan's frigate Kumano of the Maritime Self-Defense Force was shown to the media at the Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture on April 23.

Kumano can operate with a crew of about 90, about half of that for conventional destroyers, as the vessel has systems related to operations and weapons consolidated in the combat command post.

The frigate also has multiple surveillance cameras that can monitor its surroundings, needing fewer lookouts.

The ship is equipped with mine warfare capability and has enhanced stealth due to special paint coating and other features.

A more advanced version based on the state-of-the-art Kumano is a finalist for a new addition to the Royal Australian Navy's fleet.

Australia is expected to choose between a Japanese and a German vessel as its next-generation frigate in the latter half of this year.