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Japan deploys first long-range missiles with counterstrike capability amid China tensions
Japan deployed long-range missiles including upgraded Type-12 systems with about 1,000 km range, marking a shift to counterstrike capability amid rising China tensions, Defense Ministry said.
- On Tuesday, Japan's Defense Ministry announced that long-range counterstrike missiles are now operational at two Ground Self-Defense Force bases, marking a shift from the nation's exclusively defense-oriented policy.
- Camp Kengun in Kumamoto Prefecture received ground-launched Type 12 missiles capable of flying about 1,000 kilometers, while Camp Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture obtained hyper-velocity gliding projectiles for remote island defense.
- On Friday, the Maritime Self-Defense Force's Aegis-equipped Chokai destroyer acquired capability to launch U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles, expanding the military's strike range beyond ground-based systems.
- While the ministry maintains these systems are essential for strengthening deterrence amid regional security changes, local residents expressed concerns that deployment sites could become targets during potential conflict.
- The ministry plans to deploy additional long-range missiles to Camp Kamifurano in Hokkaido and Camp Ebino in Miyazaki Prefecture during fiscal 2026 to equip various units with strike capabilities.
47 Articles
47 Articles
Japan reportedly deploys long-range missiles with strike capabilities; intent behind destructive weapons not purely defensive, poses security risk: Chinese expert
Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) is set to deploy long-range missiles from Tuesday to gain strike capability against enemy bases, according to Japanese media outlets. A Chinese military affairs expert said that Japan’s deployment of such destructive weapons is by no means purely for defensive purposes, and that Japan’s strategic intent behind these developments poses a substantial security risk to neighboring countries.
Standoff Defense: Tokyo Boosts Deterrence With 1,000-KM Missile Deployment Near China
Japan has deployed long-range missiles in a southwest region near China, its defense minister said Tuesday, at a time when ties with Beijing are at their lowest in recent years.The missiles were installed in Kumamoto in the southern region of Kyushu, as Japan is attempting to shore up its military capacity as China steps up naval activity in the East China Sea."Standoff defense capabilities enable us to counter the threat of enemy forces attempt…
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