Navy comparison: 
Australia vs 
Japan
Ships by Category
🇦🇺 Australiaas of 2025
🇯🇵 Japanas of 2026
Overview
Japan's 158-ship navy outnumbers Australia's 43 vessels (3.7x advantage).
The fleet breakdown includes 6 vs 23 submarines, 0 vs 2 aircraft carriers, 3 vs 42 destroyers, 8 vs 10 frigates, 3 vs 3 amphibious ships, 15 vs 6 patrol boats, 4 vs 18 mine warfare ships (Australia vs Japan).
Australia's navy is officially the Royal Australian Navy, while Japan's is the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more naval ships, Australia or Japan?
Japan has a larger navy with 158 ships compared to Australia's 43 ships.
Which navy has more submarines, Australia or Japan?
Japan operates more submarines with 23 compared to Australia's 6.
Which country has more aircraft carriers, Australia or Japan?
Japan has 2 aircraft carrier(s) compared to Australia's 0.
Which navy has more destroyers, Australia or Japan?
Japan operates 42 destroyers compared to Australia's 3.
Which navy has more frigates, Australia or Japan?
Japan operates 10 frigates compared to Australia's 8.
How do the Australia and Japan navies compare in size?
Japan's navy is 3.7 times larger than Australia's in terms of total ships (158 vs 43).