Japan discusses the purchase of Tomahawk cruise missiles with the U.S.

Japanese authorities are considering the possibility of acquiring sea-launched cruise missiles. Negotiations with the U.S. are already at the finish line.

Here's What We Know

The purpose of buying cruise missiles is Japan's desire to counter regional threats. Mostly from North Korea, which has launched several ballistic missiles over the territory of Japan within a month.

According to the Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Tokyo is seeking to acquire intermediate-range sea-based missiles. Other media outlets have noted that Japan is in talks to buy Tomahawk missiles manufactured by the American company Raytheon. The cost of one Block IV missile is about $2 million.

Government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno said ministers are "studying" the possibility. However, no decision has yet been made. A few hours after his statement, North Korea launched another ballistic missile toward Japan.

Source: The Defense Post