Japan to deploy long-range missiles amid regional tensions

Japan, a key United States (US) ally in Northeast Asia, plans to deploy long-range missiles capable of striking China and North Korea.

According to Newsweek (NW), this move is part of Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen its defense capabilities against growing regional security threats.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has not yet officially commented on the planned deployment of these advanced missile systems.

Newsweek has contacted both the Japanese and Chinese defense ministries for a response but has not received a reply.

North Korea’s embassy in Beijing was also contacted but did not immediately provide any official statement.

Why It Matters

Japan, along with Taiwan and the Philippines, forms the first island chain in the U.S. military strategy to contain China.

The strategy aims to counteract China’s increasing military activities in the Western Pacific and surrounding waters.

China’s aggressive stance toward Taiwan has raised concerns, making Japan’s defense measures even more crucial.

Japan is preparing for potential security threats arising from increased Chinese military activities near its borders.

North Korea has also escalated tensions by conducting missile tests that threaten Japan’s territorial waters.

Japan is investing in both U.S. military equipment and its own advanced weaponry to improve defense capabilities.

The country aims to strengthen its ability to eliminate threats before they pose a direct danger.

What To Know

Japan is set to deploy upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles, which can also target land-based threats.

Kyodo News reported that the deployment is expected to begin at the end of the next fiscal year in 2026.

These missiles will be stationed on Kyushu, an island facing the East China Sea and the Korean Peninsula.

The Type 12 missile system has an estimated range of 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), making China’s coastlines vulnerable.

This long-range capability allows Japan to deter potential threats from both China and North Korea.

The missile deployment plan has raised concerns among Kyushu residents who fear their region could become a military target.

Reports suggest the Ryukyu Islands will not host the missiles to avoid escalating tensions with China.

Yonaguni, the westernmost island of Japan, is just 67 miles from Taiwan, placing it at the center of regional tensions.

China’s ongoing military pressure on Taiwan has turned Yonaguni into a critical frontline defense location.

China’s Response

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang urged Japan to act cautiously regarding its military security policies.

Zhang warned that Japan must work to rebuild trust with neighboring countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

He reminded Japan of its historical military actions during World War II, which continue to impact diplomatic relations.

Zhang made these statements during a press briefing in response to Japan’s latest missile development program.

China Daily reported that Japan’s new long-range missile system exceeds its traditionally defense-oriented military policy.

Japan’s Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile is a ground-launched ballistic missile capable of traveling five times the speed of sound.

The missile features advanced maneuvering capabilities, allowing it to evade interception during flight.

Japan has designed this missile system specifically to defend its remote island territories from potential threats.

What People Are Saying

Zhang Xiaogang criticized Japan’s recent military expansion, calling it a dangerous move beyond its pacifist constitution.

Japan’s 2024 defense white paper highlighted China’s increasing military activities near the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.

The document also raised concerns over North Korea’s advancing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.

What Happens Next

Japan is expected to continue developing its standoff defense capabilities with advanced missile technology.

The country may also host U.S. Army missile units to strengthen its long-range strike capabilities.

These units operate hypersonic weapons capable of hitting targets up to 1,725 miles away.

This move would enhance Japan’s ability to counter China’s growing military presence in the region.

Japan’s missile deployment strategy reflects its commitment to national security amid rising geopolitical tensions.

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