The US Marine Corps launched missiles at ships from Okinawa — the new NMESIS system is in action

NMESIS — mobile missile salvo from the shore

In recent weeks, the US Marines have been actively practicing a new tactic: launching anti-ship missiles from shore at naval targets. For the first time, this was done from Okinawa, a key American foothold in Japan. The missiles were launched from the NMESIS (Naval/Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System), a mobile, stealthy and extremely dangerous system for enemy ships.

This is not just an exercise. This is a demonstration of how the United States is changing the rules of the game in the Pacific Ocean.

Studying in Japan is not just an exercise, but a signal

The NMESIS system arrived in Japan on July 10, after which the Marines of the 3rd Division spent several weeks in intensive training. They practiced deployment, camouflage, targeting, and finally launch. The successful launch was a confirmation of combat readiness.

The location in Okinawa is not an accident. This is the closest point to potential "hot spots". Here you can control the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and even part of the South China Sea.

How does a system that hides and hits accurately work?

NMESIS is not a stationary launcher. It is an unmanned truck based on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) chassis, which can move through difficult terrain, disguise itself and quickly change position. It is equipped with two Naval Strike Missile (NSM) missiles from the Norwegian Kongsberg.

The missiles are inconspicuous, maneuver in front of the target and hit with high accuracy. And most importantly, the system is autonomous. You can deploy it, launch it, and leave it without leaving a trace. It is almost impossible for the opponent to understand where the blow came from.

185 km to the goal — why is the USA in the Pacific Ocean

A range of 185 kilometers is not just a number. This is a zone where you can reach enemy ships without leaving the cover of the land. Imagine a small group of Marines deploying on an island, launching missiles and disappearing. During this time, the ship can already be hit.

This tactic is part of the "distributed operations" strategy, where there are no large bases, but there are many small, secretive and deadly points. This makes the opponent vulnerable and limits his freedom of action.

Sources

1. Japan Times — NMESIS deployment & training on Okinawa
2. Stars and Stripes — 3rd Marine Division live-fire rehearsal at Camp Hansen
3. Newsweek — strategic importance of NMESIS in Indo-Pacific deterrence
4. Army Recognition — technical overview & 185 km NSM range
5. USNI News — first Japan-based training; kill-chain rehearsal
6. Defence Blog — rapid-reload drills with ROGUE-Fires JLTV

Satellite images reveal new Chinese weapon ahead of military parade: focus on anti-ship missiles

The parade as a demonstration of technological superiority

Ahead of a major military parade in Beijing, satellite imagery has provided the first visual evidence of the deployment of a new generation of Chinese weapons. Notable systems include several types of anti—ship missiles, including modifications with improved performance. Their demonstration at the parade will not only be a show of inner strength, but also a clear signal to external strategic players.

China continues to use the parades as a platform for the presentation of advanced military technologies, demonstrating progress in the modernization of the PLA Armed Forces.

New anti-ship missiles: range and power

The images indicate the presence of missiles similar to the upgraded versions of the DF-21D and DF-26B, the so—called "aircraft carrier killers." These systems have supersonic or hypersonic speeds, maneuverable warheads, and the ability to hit moving targets at sea.

It is reported that the range of some of them reaches 4,000-5,000 km, which allows them to cover key areas in the Pacific Ocean, including possible positions of US Navy strike groups. The emergence of new variants with improved stealth and guidance systems indicates constant modernization.

The goal is to deter the US Navy in the Pacific Ocean

Analysts note that the characteristics of the new missiles indicate their focus on countering American aircraft carriers and other large ships. This fits into China's overall strategy to create "access restriction and breakout prevention" (A2AD) zones in the South China and East China Seas.

The deployment of such systems enhances Beijing's ability to control sea routes and reduce the operational freedom of the US Navy in the region.

A signal to strategic rivals

The display of new missiles at the parade is not just a demonstration of military power, but an element of strategic communication. He stresses China's willingness to defend its interests and its ability to counter the most advanced military platforms.

Such actions increase tensions in the region, but at the same time encourage a review of tactics and technologies on the part of the United States and its allies.

Sōryū-class submarine: A key asset of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces

 

JS Soryu (SS-501), a new Japanese diesel- electric attack submarine

In today's world, where regional tensions and maritime threats are becoming increasingly complex, the Sōryū-class submarine occupies a central place in the defense strategy of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). This project represents a revolution in the field of underwater technology, combining advanced engineering solutions, high stealth and a powerful firing system. Since its introduction, the *Sōryū* class has become a symbol of Japan's readiness to face the challenges of the 21st century at sea.

The *Sōryū* class features an innovative approach to design and functionality. Submarines of this type are equipped with an air-independent power supply (AIP) system, which allows them to stay underwater much longer than traditional diesel-electric submarines. Thanks to AIP technology based on the use of glass-electrolyte batteries, these boats can remain undetected for a long time, increasing their effectiveness as a means of reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.

Stealth is one of the main advantages of *Sōryū* boats. Their housings are made using special materials that reduce acoustic visibility. In addition, the hull design and the use of passive sonar systems make it extremely difficult for the enemy to detect these submarines. This is especially important in the context of the increasing activity of other naval Powers in the Pacific region.

The Sōryū-class submarines are equipped with modern torpedoes and cruise missiles, making them a formidable opponent for any enemy ships. Depending on the configuration, they can be equipped with vertical launchers for launching ballistic or cruise missiles, expanding the range of possible tasks that these submarines can perform. This versatility allows the JMSDF to use them not only to protect its own territorial waters, but also to participate in international operations with allies.

Later modifications of this class also provide for the possibility of using an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) control system, which opens up new horizons for reconnaissance operations and monitoring of the sea.

In the context of the current geopolitical situation in the Asia-Pacific region, Sōryū-class submarines play a key role in ensuring Japan's maritime security. They provide the country with the ability to control the most important sea routes, protect its islands, and monitor the activities of potential adversaries. This is especially true in light of China's growing influence in the region and its increasing naval presence.

In addition, the presence of such advanced submarines strengthens Japan's position as a reliable partner of the United States and other countries in matters of regional security. The joint exercises with the US Navy demonstrate a high level of interaction and coordination between the two countries, which contributes to strengthening their defensive alliance.

Japan continues to improve its submarine fleet, developing a new generation of submarines based on the experience gained during the creation of the *Sōryū* class. Construction of a new generation of submarines, known as the "501-class" or "Sōryū-next generation" submarines, has recently begun. These vessels will be even more technologically advanced, with improved stealth and combat effectiveness characteristics.

It is also worth noting that some of the *Sōryū* class boats can be modified for use as platforms for launching medium-range ballistic missiles, which will significantly expand their capabilities as a strategic means.

The Sōryū-class submarine is one of the most significant achievements of the Japanese defense industry. She embodies advanced technology, high stealth, and powerful combat capabilities, making her an indispensable element of Japan's modern maritime security strategy. In the context of evolving regional threats, these submarines continue to play a crucial role in protecting the country's interests and maintaining stability in the Asia-Pacific region. The future shows that the development of this series of submarines will follow new challenges, making them even more effective and dangerous for any potential enemy.