Japan accelerates procurement of Tomahawk missiles
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force now expects to receive its first Tomahawk missiles in FY2025, under an accelerated schedule. (Photo: DoD)
Faced by a rough neighbourhood, Japan is accelerating plans to obtain Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Japan is fast-tracking efforts to obtain Tomahawk land attack cruise missiles from the US, as it simultaneously develops indigenous stand-off missiles.
Newly installed Defense Minister Minoru Kihara said on 4 October, following a meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, that Tomahawk missiles would reach Japan a year earlier than originally scheduled.
The MoD then announced the following day that the Self-Defense Force ‘will strengthen its stand-off defence capabilities in order to deter and eliminate the invasion force into Japan at an early and distant stage. In light of the more severe security environment, Minister of Defense Kihara instructed us
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays]()
South Korean shipbuilders showcase export ambitions amid ongoing KDDX delays
Hyundai and Hanwha recently unveiled advanced frigate and submarine designs while South Korea eyes new export markets and resolves internal rivalries
-
![US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026]()
US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026
The FY26 Homeland Security Bill Markup of the House Committee on Appropriations included resources for the procurement of ships, aircraft and unmanned systems.
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer
The sixth Canada’s Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship is currently at the final stages of construction within Irving Shipbuilding.
