Posted on 05/07/2015 1:53:57 AM PDT by WhiskeyX
Japan will agree this month to give Australia classified submarine data, an unprecedented step signaling Tokyos intent to join competitive bidding to sell Canberra a fleet of stealth subs, said two Japanese officials familiar with the plan.
The competitive assessment will see Germanys ThyssenKrupp and Frances state-controlled naval contractor DCNS separately competing with a Japanese government-led bid for such contractors as Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
Japan had been the front-runner in the planned sale of around 12 vessels, for as much as $40 billion, to replace Australias ageing Collins class submarines, sources have said, until Prime Minister Tony Abbott opened up the bidding under pressure from opposition and ruling party lawmakers.
(Excerpt) Read more at japantimes.co.jp ...
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