Japan to test long-range missiles on its own territory for the first time
The Japanese Self-Defence Forces have scheduled for June 2025 the first-ever live-fire test of long-range missiles on its own territory.
Here's What We Know
The exercises will take place from 19 to 30 June at a training ground near Camp Shizunai in Shinhidaka on the southern coast of Hokkaido, near the strategically important Sea of Okhotsk and Tsugaru Strait. Two Type 88 (SSM-1) non-explosive missiles will be launched on separate days at a maritime target 40 kilometres from the launch site.
The Type 88, which was commissioned in 1988, is a Japanese-developed land-based anti-ship missile. It is based on the ASM-1 missile and can travel up to 150 kilometres at a speed of 1,150 km/h. Its feature is the ability to avoid terrain and descend to sea level before impact.
These exercises were made possible by a change in Japan's defence doctrine, which allowed it to conduct missile tests on its own territory, whereas previously such firing took place at US training grounds. About 300 people will take part in the exercise under the leadership of the 1st Artillery Brigade of the Northern Army of Japan.
In parallel with these exercises, Japan is expanding its defence capabilities in response to China's increased military activity. It plans to build a new missile range on the Minamitorishima atoll, where in 2026 it will fire a Type 12 missile, an upgraded version of the Type 88. The new version of the missile will be able to cover up to 1,000 kilometres, which is in line with the active deterrence strategy.
The change in Japan's defence strategy is a response to rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, in particular due to China's increased military presence near Taiwan and in the East China Sea.
Source: Army Recognition
