Japan puts "long-range needles" in the south: Type-12 missiles on Kumamoto against China

 

Type-12 Missile Launcher

Japan is coming close to implementing a plan to deploy its new ultra-long-range anti-ship missiles, and this is directly related to China's growing activity in the region. The country's Defense ministry has almost completed the development of a plan according to which the upgraded Type-12 missiles will be deployed at the base of the Ground Self-Defense Forces at Camp Kangun, Kumamoto Prefecture. This is clearly being done as a deterrent measure in response to China's increased military maneuvers around the disputed islands of Nansei and Taiwan. The first missiles are expected to arrive at the base as early as this fiscal year, starting approximately in March 2026. The main feature of the new missiles is their impressive range, which, according to various sources, ranges from 900 to 1200 km, which is several times more than the older versions. This range allows missiles to reach potentially dangerous areas. It is planned that after deployment in Kyushu (where Kumamoto is located), the missiles will appear in Okinawa. Other potential locations are also being considered, for example, the garrison in the Southern Federal District (Icu Prefecture). These mobile missile systems will seriously strengthen the defense of the southwestern islands of Japan.