Japan has begun transporting the domestically modernized Type-12 missiles, which have a range of about 1,000 kilometers, to military bases in order to strengthen its deterrence against regional threats. Due to rising tensions, the Ministry of Defense has moved the schedule forward by one year. It aims to complete the installation of the Type-12 systems by the end of March.
Strategic Deployment: A Covert Operation to Camp Kengun
Japan is starting to add its first domestically developed long-range missiles to its inventory to enhance its strike capability in response to growing security threats in the region. Within this scope, launch systems and related equipment for the upgraded Type-12 land-based anti-ship missiles were delivered to Camp Kengun military base in Kumamoto Prefecture. This delivery took place during a covert operation early Monday morning.
According to the plan confirmed by Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, the systems are expected to be fully installed by the end of March. During the shipment, some local residents held a protest in front of the base. They criticized the lack of transparency in the process and warned that the region could become a potential target. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Defense stated that the timeline had been moved forward by a year due to tensions around China and Taiwan. It also emphasized that security measures related to the Type-12 had been implemented.
Range Increased Fivefold: Mainland China Within Reach
The modernized Type-12 missile, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has extended the range of its previous version from 200 kilometers to approximately 1,000 kilometers, nearly a fivefold increase. With this technical capability, Type-12 missiles could theoretically reach targets on mainland China.
In the second phase of the deployment plan, the missiles are also expected to be stationed later this year at Camp Fuji in Shizuoka, west of Tokyo. Japan, which has been strengthening its military presence in the East China Sea, has already deployed air defense systems on the islands of Okinawa, Ishigaki, and Miyako.
In addition, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that medium-range missiles will also be deployed on Yonaguni Island, the country’s westernmost island. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced that Japan’s defense policy will be revised by the end of the year. She also emphasized that the country’s military capability will be further enhanced with long-range systems and unmanned weapons alongside the Type-12.
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Source: C4Defence – telegraphindia
