Japan offers the US to jointly produce SM-6 missiles
Japan has offered the United States to jointly produce Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) anti-aircraft ship missiles, which should strengthen the defence partnership between the countries.
Here's What We Know
On 30 March, Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani said during a meeting with Pentagon Secretary Pete Hagans that such missiles would be used on existing Japanese Navy destroyers and new ships under the ASEV project, which are scheduled to enter service in 2027-2028.
The US side responded positively, expressing its readiness to continue discussions not only on the SM-6 but also on other missiles, including the AIM-120 AMRAAM and PAC-3 for the Patriot system. Japan is also accelerating the production of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, which will be developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries without dependence on US components.
It is worth noting that at the end of January 2025, the United States approved the sale of 150 SM-6 Block 1 missiles to Japan for a total of $900 million. The deal also includes MK 21 Mod 3 launch containers, kitting, support equipment and integration work.
Source: Naval News
