Japan Deploys Long-Range Missiles Amid Regional Outcry

The Government of Japan operationalized its first long-range counterstrike missiles on March 31, 2026, deploying upgraded Type-12 land-to-ship guided missiles at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto and hyper velocity gliding projectiles at Camp Fuji in Shizuoka. The Type-12 missiles, produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, feature an extended range of approximately 1,000 kilometers, bringing parts of mainland China within reach. These deployments follow a record defense budget exceeding 9 trillion yen approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's cabinet.

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi defended the move as essential for standoff defense, stating that Japan faces the most severe security environment of the postwar era. The strategy further includes the deployment of U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles on the destroyer JS Chokai and planned expansions to Hokkaido and Miyazaki by March 2028.

International reactions were swiftly critical. China's Foreign Ministry characterized the buildup as a violation of international law and the Japanese Constitution, describing it as a move toward offensiveness and expansionism. North Korea accused Japan of making "war preparations for re-invasion," while Russia's Foreign Ministry termed the shift a "dangerous course toward remilitarization" and stated it is developing countermeasures.

Domestically, the move sparked protests in Tokyo, Kumamoto, and Shizuoka. Critics and legal experts argue the deployments are unconstitutional and hollow out Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution. Defense Minister Koizumi stated the government has no plans to hold explanatory meetings for the public.