Japan Enhances Defense Strategy with Advanced Missile Deployments
In response to a perceived increase in regional threats, Japan has strategically positioned state-of-the-art missiles across the country. The Japanese Ministry of Defense began transporting upgraded Type 12 anti-ship guided missiles to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces’ Kengun Camp on Kyushu Island starting March 9. Troop deployment is scheduled for March 31.
The new Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles, which are an enhanced version of the previous model used since 2019, boast a range of approximately 1,000 kilometers and improved stealth features. These missiles are pivotal to Japan’s air and missile defense strategy, complementing its existing standoff capabilities, which also include Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from Aegis destroyers.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that these missiles are crucial for “thwarting and eliminating invading enemy ships and landing forces at an early and far distance.” In addition to the Type 12s, the ministry will deploy a new hyper velocity gliding projectile (HVGP) at Camp Fuji, shared with the U.S. Marine Corps and located about 100 kilometers west of Tokyo. The HVGP is a mobile, supersonic weapon that is challenging to intercept due to its unpredictable flight paths.
The defense ministry plans to station the HVGP at Camp Fuji initially, with future deployments to various locations, including remote islands, to counter potential invasions. Koizumi emphasized the importance of upcoming live-fire exercises and troop training at the Higashi Fuji Training Ground to enhance the Japan-U.S. alliance’s deterrence and resilience.
Further plans include deploying HVGPs to Camp Kamifurano in Hokkaido and Camp Ebino in southeastern Kyushu. Additionally, the JGSDF will conduct live-fire drills and electronic warfare training on Minamitorishima Island in the Pacific, with preparations already underway for exercises later this year.
Japan is working on developing a hypersonic version of the HVGP, supported by the United States. The U.S. State Department recently approved a $340 million foreign military sale for the HVGP program, following a meeting between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Donald Trump. Read more about Japan’s defense advancements.
