Japan has announced plans to accelerate the deployment of its domestically developed long-range missiles, moving the timeline forward by a year in response to escalating regional tensions. The Defense Ministry revealed on Friday that the first batch of Type-12 anti-ship missiles will be installed at Camp Kengun, located in the southwestern prefecture of Kumamoto, by March 2026.
The Type-12 missile is designed with a range of approximately 1,000 kilometers (about 620 miles), enhancing Japan’s military capabilities as it seeks to bolster its defense strategy amid growing concerns about China’s assertive naval activities in the region. In June 2023, Japan observed two Chinese aircraft carriers operating near its southern islands for the first time, highlighting the increasingly complex security environment.
Shifts in Japan’s Defense Strategy
These developments represent a significant shift in Japan’s defense policy, which has traditionally adhered to a pacifist constitution established after World War II. The country previously constrained its military actions to self-defense only. However, a notable change occurred in 2022 when Japan adopted a five-year security strategy that identifies China as its primary strategic challenge. This policy emphasizes a closer alliance with the United States and includes a broader role for Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.
In response to these strategic shifts, Japan plans to increase its military spending to 2% of its GDP by 2027, up from about 1%. This adjustment comes amid calls from the United States, Japan’s treaty ally, for the nation to enhance its defense capabilities.
Budget Increase and Technological Advancements
The announcement of the expedited missile deployment coincides with the Defense Ministry’s request for a record 8.8 trillion yen (approximately $59.9 billion) in the fiscal 2026 budget. This budget is focused on advancing long-range missile technology and drone capabilities to address threats from China, North Korea, and Russia.
While Japan’s domestically produced missiles are still under development, the country plans to deploy U.S.-developed Tomahawk missiles later this year. Additionally, the Defense Ministry is pursuing the integration of unmanned air, surface, and underwater drones for surveillance efforts, aiming to enhance the security of Japan’s coastlines. This initiative comes at a time when Japan faces challenges related to an aging and declining population, which has contributed to a military that is increasingly understaffed.
As Japan navigates this pivotal moment in its defense policy, the accelerated deployment of missiles signals a new era of military preparedness in a region marked by uncertainty and potential conflict.
