Japan Deploys Long-Range Missiles with "Enemy Base Attack Capability" for the First Time

On March 31, Xinhua News Agency reported from Tokyo (reporters Chen Ze'an and Li Ziyue) that Japanese Defense Minister Kono Shin'ichirō announced at a press conference that long-range missiles with "capability to attack enemy bases" were deployed in Kumamoto Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture on the same day. Japanese media commented that this is the first time Japan has deployed such missiles, marking a shift in Japan's defense policy, which has adhered to the principle of "defensive defense."

According to Kyodo News, on the 31st, the Japanese Ministry of Defense deployed the "Type 25 Anti-Ship Missile" at the Kengun Garrison in Kumamoto Prefecture and the "Type 25 High-Speed Glide Bomb" at the Fuji Garrison in Shizuoka Prefecture.

The "Type 25 Anti-Ship Missile," previously known as the "Land-Based Improved Type 12 Anti-Ship Missile," has a range of about 1,000 kilometers, far exceeding Japan's territorial limits, and possesses significant offensive capabilities. The "Type 25 High-Speed Glide Bomb," previously referred to as the "High-Speed Glide Bomb for Island Defense," has a range of several hundred kilometers. Japan is currently developing an upgraded version with a range of about 2,000 kilometers.

Kyodo News reported that the so-called "capability to attack enemy bases" means that if it is determined that the enemy has begun an attack, Japan can use these weapons to "counterattack" before actual losses occur. However, if there is a misjudgment, it could potentially become a preemptive "attack" action prohibited by international law. Kyodo News commented that this deployment marks a turning point in Japan's defense policy, which has adhered to the principle of "defensive defense."

In an interview with Xinhua News Agency, Yamaguchi University Emeritus Professor Kakehashi Atsushi stated that the Japanese government explains the "capability to attack enemy bases" as a means to enhance deterrence, but in reality, it clearly exceeds the level of "self-defense."

Additionally, according to Kyodo News, on the 31st, residents of Kumamoto Prefecture held protests around the Japan Self-Defense Force Kengun Garrison, holding placards that read "Oppose Deployment" and "No Need for Missiles," protesting the missile deployment. Reports indicate that local residents are concerned that the missile deployment will make the area a target for attacks, and they have been calling for the Ministry of Defense to hold an explanatory meeting regarding the missile deployment, but the Ministry has yet to do so.