Japan allocates $3 billion to produce hypersonic ballistic missiles and upgraded Type 12 missiles with a range of up to 1,200 km

Japan's Ministry of Defence has announced the signing of several contracts that will enhance the military capabilities of the Land of the Rising Sun. The agreements were signed with the main defence contractor, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

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Under the contracts, the Japanese firm will launch production of hypersonic weapons and advanced Type 12 missiles. Japan has allocated a total of ¥380 billion ($3 billion) to achieve the goal.

The Land of the Rising Sun's defence ministry wants hypersonic ballistic missiles to defend distant islands. As for the Type 12, an upgraded version of the missile would have a range of 1,200km.

Japanese officials declined to specify how many missiles the contract calls for, but noted that production will gradually increase over five years. The weapons will be tested at US military bases, due to limited space on Japanese territory.

Another contract has been awarded for the development of long-range anti-ship guided missiles that are launched from submarines. Deployment dates have not yet been set.

Source: Defense News