Japan deploys its first long-range missiles
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Japan deployed its first long-range upgraded Type-12 land-to-ship missiles at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto, extending the missile's range to about 1,000 kilometers, enabling strikes reaching mainland China.
- Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi emphasized the deployment as vital for strengthening Japan's deterrence and responsiveness amid a complex security environment, marking a shift from Japan’s traditional self-defense-only stance.
- The deployment sparked local protests due to concerns over increased regional tension and the risk of the area becoming a target for potential enemies.
- Japan also deployed a new hypersonic glide vehicle at Camp Fuji and plans further deployment of these systems across the country by March 2028, alongside introducing U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles on its destroyers.
- With China viewed as the main regional threat, Japan approved a record defense budget exceeding $58 billion to enhance strike and coastal defense capabilities, including establishing a new office to monitor China’s Pacific military activity.
