Japan’s Ministry of Defense began deploying two types of long-range missiles on March 31 to Ground Self-Defense Force bases in Kumamoto and Shizuoka, marking a shift toward operational counterstrike capability. An upgraded Type-12 surface-to-ship missile, with a range of about 1,000 kilometers, was deployed at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto City, while a hypersonic glide projectile designed to target invading forces on remote islands was stationed at Camp Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. The missiles will be operated under a unified command integrating the Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces. Officials said U.S. intelligence support may be required for distant targets, indicating closer bilateral coordination. The deployment represents a significant change in Japan’s postwar security policy. Source: NHK News / The Sankei Shimbun
Photo: NHK News
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