IRIA News

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Japan took a major step in strengthening its self-defense capabilities by awarding Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) a $216 million contract to develop advanced long-range, precision-guided missiles.

The latest contract is a part of the country’s broader military modernization agenda in response to mounting regional threats, particularly in East Asia.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the contract will span fiscal years 2025 through 2028, with the missile systems expected to be fully developed by 2032. These next-generation weapons are intended for both ground-to-ground and ground-to-ship use and are designed to enhance Japan’s standoff defense capabilities significantly.

The Ministry said the missiles will be deployed to “prevent and eliminate invading troops,” emphasizing a defensive posture rather than offensive capabilities. Although the technical details have not been fully disclosed, the Ministry included diagrams in its public announcement that illustrate the missile systems’ expected features and performance.

The new missiles are anticipated to strike high-value sections of enemy vessels and traverse Japan’s rugged, mountainous terrain with pinpoint accuracy to neutralize land-based threats. This focus on mobility and precision underscores Tokyo’s desire to maintain a flexible, credible deterrent without relying exclusively on foreign military systems.

Japan’s investment in this missile development project is part of a broader strategic framework anchored in three key national documents issued in 2022: the National Security Strategy, the National Defense Strategy, and the Defense Buildup Plan. These policy papers outline Japan’s intention to build up its counterstrike capabilities, considering evolving threats from China, North Korea, and an increasingly unpredictable regional security environment.

As part of this strategy, Japan has earmarked approximately $6.4 billion for the enhancement of standoff defense capabilities. This includes significant funding for multiple advanced weapons programs, such as:

• $60 million for upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles,
• $21 million for submarine-launched guided missiles,
• $20 million for high-velocity gliding missiles intended for island defense.

Japan also plans to introduce joint strike missiles for its F-35A fighter jets and air-to-surface standoff missiles for its upgraded fleet of F-15 aircraft, further diversifying and modernizing its aerial strike capability.

In a related development, Japan announced in 2024 that it would purchase an additional 400 Tomahawk missiles from the United States. The government also revealed that some of these missiles, along with upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles mounted on trucks, will be deployed ahead of schedule in 2025.

In a clear sign of the deepening defense ties between Tokyo and Washington, the Japanese Ministry of Defense recently unveiled a new missile co-production project with the U.S., focused on developing AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs). The announcement coincided with a visit to Japan by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

During his visit, Hegseth remarked, “Japan is an indispensable partner in deterring Communist Chinese military aggression.” His statement underscored the United States’ growing reliance on Japan as a key ally in maintaining the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

The U.S.-Japan missile co-production plan has drawn criticism from North Korea, which denounced the deal as a move that will “aggravate regional security risks.” A spokesperson from North Korea’s defense ministry accused both nations of fueling instability in the Asia-Pacific region and undermining prospects for peace.

Japan, however, maintains that its defense measures are necessary and proportionate responses to an increasingly volatile security environment. With growing concerns over Chinese military assertiveness in the East China Sea and North Korean missile tests, Japanese policymakers are prioritizing defense innovation and readiness.

The collaboration with MHI represents not only a significant technological leap for Japan’s domestic arms industry but also a symbolic statement of its intent to assume greater responsibility for its own defense. As Japan moves toward a more assertive security stance, these missile programs will likely play a central role in deterring potential aggressors and ensuring national sovereignty.

By advancing both indigenous and joint defense projects, Japan is making it clear that it seeks to remain a capable and autonomous player in the region’s evolving security dynamics. The years leading up to 2032 will be pivotal in determining whether this ambitious military modernization effort succeeds in delivering both deterrence and stability.