Japan’s security circumstances prompt it to introduce longer-range missiles
This is the current Type 12 anti-ship missile launcher, with the missile now being enhanced to improve range and speed. (Photo: Koji Miyake)
With growing threats such as China and North Korean missiles, Japan is developing long-range, standoff missiles to enhance its deterrence posture.
The Japanese MoD announced a JPY378.1 billion ($2.8 billion) contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on 11 April, covering several types of long-range missiles.
It includes the development and mass production of the capability-enhanced Type 12 anti-ship missile (12SSM), the production of a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), and the development of a submarine-launched missile.
The improved 12SSM is a significant improvement over the current version, including large deployable main wings, conversion of a jet engine to a turbofan, change in overall shape to reduce radar cross-section, and a data link that connects to GPS satellites and AEW aircraft.
The 12SSM’s maximum
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Defence Notes
-
![High tension in the High North – a wake-up call for NATO’s future Arctic defence efforts?]()
High tension in the High North – a wake-up call for NATO’s future Arctic defence efforts?
Any potential ‘Arctic Sentry’ mission would be months in the planning, but with tensions high in the region given the US’s push for Greenland, NATO countries will need to continue to emphasise their commitment to the region, analysts have said.
-
![Venezuela prepares personnel and equipment for a potential second US attack]()
Venezuela prepares personnel and equipment for a potential second US attack
Defence Minister Gen Vladimir Padrino López has declared that the Venezuelan armed forces “will continue to employ all its available capabilities for military defence”.
-
![As the new year starts, the UK defence spending delay continues]()
As the new year starts, the UK defence spending delay continues
The UK’s defence spending commitments remain uncertain as the government’s Defence Investment Plan, which had been due by the end of 2025, is yet to be published.
-
![How might European countries look to tackle drone incursions?]()
How might European countries look to tackle drone incursions?
Disruption of infrastructure in Europe, whether by cyberattack, physical damage to pipelines or uncrewed aerial vehicles flying over major airports, as has happened more recently, is on the rise. What is the most effective way of countering the aerial aspect of this not-so-open warfare?
-
![Taiwan approved for $11 billion weapon purchase from US]()
Taiwan approved for $11 billion weapon purchase from US
The US State Department’s approval of a multi-billion-dollar sale of weapons to Taiwan includes tactical mission networks equipment, uncrewed aerial systems, artillery rocket systems and self-propelled howitzers as well as anti-tank guided missiles.
-
![Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan]()
Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan
Ireland’s multi-annual investment in capital defence spending is set to rise from €300m in 2026 to €360m in 2029–2030 with major upgrades across land, air, maritime and cyber domains.
