Japan tests a new cruise missile that can fly 1500 km for the first time
The Ministry of Defence of Japan, together with the Ground Self-Defence Forces, tested a new cruise missile, the 12SSM-ER, which has a range of about 1,500 km.
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The new cruise missile was tested from a ground-based launcher equipped with two transport and launch containers. The system is based on the Mitsubishi 8×8 Gen.2 heavy platform.
The missile, including the booster, is 9 metres long and has a diameter of 1,000 mm. It weighs 1,600 kg, making it similar in weight to the US Tomahawk cruise missile, which Japan is also purchasing as a temporary deterrent for its surface ships.
The official date of the test was not disclosed, but the Japanese Ministry of Defence said that five test launches were carried out during October 2024: three from a land launcher and two from a surface platform.
The missile is expected to enter service in late 2025. It will significantly increase the effective strike zone from 400 to 1,500 km, which will be an important step in deterring China. The naval version of the missile is planned to be installed on surface warships of the naval self-defence forces, including anti-submarine destroyers, missile destroyers and frigates.
Testing the 12SSM-ER. Illustration: Japan's ground forces
The Japanese government classifies the new product as a long-range cruise missile, although technically it belongs to the SSM-2 long-range cruise missile developed on the basis of the Type 17 ship version. In addition, the country is developing two cruise missiles with a range of 2,000 km to 3,000 km.
Unlike the United States, Japan was not a signatory to the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Therefore, the development of its cruise missiles with a range of more than 1,000 km was not limited by international agreements, although there was political pressure from the United States.
In addition, in addition to the ground and ship-based versions of the missile, Japan is developing an aircraft modification to be used on F-2 fighters. Its development is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027.
Source: Japan Ground Forces
