Japan plans long-range missile deployment on Kyushu by 2026
Japan is considering stationing long-range missiles on the southwestern island of Kyushu as part of its strategy to develop counterstrike capabilities in the event of a national security crisis, Kyodo News reported on March 16, citing government sources.
The planned missile deployment, expected to begin in March 2026, aims to strengthen security in the Nansei Islands chain, a strategically vital region due to its proximity to Taiwan. The move comes amid growing concerns that China could attempt to seize the self-governing democratic island.
Sources indicate that the missiles may be stationed at Self-Defense Forces (SDF) air defense regiment garrisons in Yufu, Oita Prefecture, and in Kumamoto City. However, Okinawa Prefecture—closer to mainland China—is unlikely to be considered due to fears that deploying missiles there could escalate tensions with Beijing.
Japan’s upgraded missile capabilities
According to Kyodo, the deployed missiles will be an upgraded version of the Ground Self-Defense Force’s (GSDF) land-based anti-ship missile with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers. Stationing these missiles on Kyushu would enable Japan to reach coastal areas of North Korea and China, reinforcing its deterrence strategy in the region.
The military war may be swinging in our favor, but the information war continues.
Just as an army needs soldiers, so does a free society need its journalists to ensure that people have access to honest, trustworthy voices to understand the world around them.
For the past five years, The New Voice of Ukraine has been working tirelessly to push back against Russian narratives and defend democracy. But we cannot do it alone.
Please consider supporting us on Patreon for just $5 a month – your donation does directly to supporting journalists and ensuring that this front of the infowar says solid and defended.
Thank you.
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Google News
