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?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Estonia boosting defence industry with lessons from Ukraine, says country’s economic minister]()
Estonia boosting defence industry with lessons from Ukraine, says country’s economic minister
Estonia is looking to boost its local defence industry with directed funding, industry parks, support through international orders for equipment and rapid prototyping.
-
![UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens]()
UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens
The UK has recently deployed a Type 45 destroyer to Cyprus and has bolstered its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks with supporting air power to protect neighbouring countries’ air defences.
-
![White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production]()
White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production
Intended to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran, efforts to increase the production of weapons and ammunition could expose long-standing weaknesses in the US defence industrial base.
-
![India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict]()
India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict
The latest escalation between Iran and Israel could shape New Delhi’s next-generation shield as India deepens cooperation with Israel on missile defence and drone production.
-
![Is the US magazine of air defence interceptors deep enough to sustain a long campaign against Iran?]()
Is the US magazine of air defence interceptors deep enough to sustain a long campaign against Iran?
The Pentagon spent a considerable number of THAAD and SM-3 rounds to defend against Iranian missiles in 2025 and has not fully replenished its reserves.
