Japan to Position Counter-Strike Missiles Near China

Japan plans to station a series of long-range counter-strike missiles in its southwestern region, specifically in proximity to China, by the end of March, as indicated by officials of the government.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force is preparing to set up its Type 12 surface-to-ship missile system in Kumamoto, located on Kyushu Island. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced to the press that the Ministry of Defense will inform local inhabitants about the missile deployment once all necessary arrangements are finalized.

"I have been informed that once the necessary preparations are in place, the Ministry of Defense will hold a briefing for local residents," Kihara stated during a standard government briefing. It is reported that the Type 12 missile system has a striking range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles), thus granting Japan the capacity to launch attacks on far-off targets.

This development occurs as Japan intensifies its military readiness in response to increasing Chinese naval operations throughout the East China Sea. Japan is advancing what it refers to as a “counter-strike” capability, designed to enable the nation to target adversary bases should Japan face direct threats.

Tensions between Japan and China have intensified following comments made in November by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested that Tokyo might intervene militarily if Taiwan comes under attack. The Chinese government views Taiwan as part of its territory and has consistently stated that it may consider using force to reclaim control over the island.

In the wake of Takaichi’s statements, reports surfaced indicating that China has tightened economic pressures on Japan and discouraged Chinese tourists from traveling to the nation.

Local news outlets have reported that Japan's ground forces transferred a missile launcher to Kumamoto without notifying local communities in advance, sparking protests outside a military installation nearby. Detractors argue that the missile deployment could transform the area into a prospective target should a military conflict arise.