What's happened
Japan plans to deploy domestically developed Type-12 anti-ship missiles by March 2026, part of a broader military buildup to counter China, North Korea, and Russia. The move follows increased regional tensions and US-Japan military cooperation, with Japan seeking greater self-sufficiency in defense capabilities.
What's behind the headline?
Japan's rapid military expansion signals a significant shift from its post-war pacifism, driven by regional security concerns. The deployment of the Type-12 missile and plans for US-made Tomahawks reflect a move toward offensive capabilities, challenging its traditional defense-only posture. This escalation risks further destabilizing the region, especially as China and Russia oppose US and Japanese missile deployments. The timing suggests Japan aims to deter Chinese naval assertiveness and North Korean missile threats, while also responding to US pressure for increased defense spending. The broader strategic goal appears to be creating a more autonomous and capable military force, which could reshape regional power dynamics and trigger an arms race. The deployment of advanced surveillance and unmanned drones indicates Japan's focus on intelligence and coast guard capabilities, but the core shift remains a move toward offensive missile capabilities, which could provoke countermeasures from regional rivals.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Russia views the deployment of US and Japanese missiles as destabilizing, with Moscow warning of military-technical measures if Japan proceeds. China also opposes the US-Japan missile deployment, urging Japan to follow a peaceful development path and criticizing the move as undermining regional stability. Meanwhile, The Independent and AP News detail Japan's strategic shift, including the deployment of domestically developed Type-12 missiles with a range of 1,000 km, and its broader efforts to modernize and expand its military capabilities amid regional threats. The Japan Times highlights Japan's increased defense budget and plans for maritime surveillance, emphasizing the historic nature of these changes under its post-WWII constitution. The coverage collectively underscores Japan's transition from a pacifist stance to a more assertive military posture, driven by regional security concerns and alliance commitments.
How we got here
Japan has historically maintained a pacifist stance since World War II, limiting its military to self-defense. However, recent regional threats, including Chinese naval activity, North Korea's missile tests, and Russia's actions, prompted Japan to revise its security strategy in 2022. The country is now increasing military spending, deploying new missile systems, and strengthening alliances, especially with the US, to address these challenges.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why is Japan deploying new anti-ship missiles?
Japan's recent move to deploy domestically developed Type-12 anti-ship missiles marks a significant shift in its military strategy. This change is driven by regional tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia, prompting questions about Japan's evolving defense policies and regional stability. Below, we explore the reasons behind Japan's missile deployment, its impact on regional security, and what it means for Japan's post-WWII pacifist stance.
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Japan is an island country of East Asia in the northwest Pacific Ocean. It borders the Sea of Japan to the west and extends from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia constituting the northern part of the Korean Peninsula.