Pakistan, June 25 — TOKYO – Japan’s military successfully test-fired a missile on its own territory for the first time on Tuesday, marking a historic shift in its defense strategy as it boosts military readiness to deter China.
The Ground Self-Defense Force launched a Type 88 surface-to-ship missile from the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island. The missile targeted a crewless boat located about 40 kilometers off the southern coast of the island.
Previously, Japan conducted its missile tests in allied countries like the United States and Australia due to limited space and safety concerns. However, this domestic test signals a stronger push for military self-reliance and faster response capabilities.
While the test was declared successful, dozens of protesters gathered outside a nearby army camp, warning that such actions could heighten tensions in Asia and draw Japan into future conflicts.
Japan’s defense strategy has undergone significant changes since 2022, when it named China as its top security threat. It is now working to strengthen its alliance with the U.S. and is acquiring long-range strike capabilities, including American-made Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Additionally, Japan is developing advanced Type 12 missiles with a range of 1,000 kilometers-ten times greater than the Type 88 used in the test. It is also preparing a new missile-firing range on Minamitorishima, a remote island in the Pacific, where Chinese aircraft carriers were recently spotted.
