Japan will deploy a batch of long-range, counter-strike missiles in the southwestern region near China by the end of March, officials announced on Monday.
The Ground Self-Defense Force plans to station its Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles, which have a reported range of 1,000 kilometres (620 miles), in Kumamoto, located in the Kyushu region, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told a regular briefing. “Once the necessary preparations have been made, the Ministry of Defense will brief local residents about the move,” he added.
The deployment is part of Japan’s efforts to bolster its military capabilities amid rising Chinese naval activity in the East China Sea. The counter-strike missiles are intended to allow Japan to target enemy bases in the event of a direct attack on its territory.
Tensions between Tokyo and Beijing have escalated since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that Japan could intervene militarily if self-ruled Taiwan were attacked. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out taking it by force.
Following Takaichi’s remarks, Beijing has applied economic pressure on Japan and discouraged Chinese nationals from traveling to the country.
Local media reported that Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force delivered a missile launcher to Kumamoto overnight without prior notice to nearby communities, prompting dozens of protesters to gather outside a local military base. Critics warn that the deployment could make the region a potential target in any future conflict.
The Japanese government has emphasized that the missile positioning is defensive, aiming to strengthen national security and deter potential aggression in the region.
About the Author
