US EditionJapanese destroyer acquires Tomahawk missile launch capability
The upgrade enables Japan to enhance self-defense by striking enemy missile bases, supporting its revised 2022 national security strategy, with a live-fire test planned by August.
- On Friday, the Maritime Self-Defense Force announced the Aegis-equipped Chokai completed refitting in San Diego, California, acquiring new Tomahawk cruise missile launch capabilities.
- This upgrade fulfills Japan's 2022 national security strategy, designed to strengthen the nation's "counterstrike capabilities" amid an increasingly severe regional security environment as China and North Korea continue their military buildup.
- During a ceremony at the U.S. naval base, Vice Adm. Yoshihiro Goka said the missile capability is "extremely important for enhancing the overall deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance." U.S. Third Fleet commander Vice Adm. John Wade attended.
- Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told reporters Friday the new capability is "highly significant in reducing the likelihood of armed attacks against Japan," emphasizing the systems "remain the minimum necessary for self-defense."
- The MSDF plans a live-fire test off San Diego by August, with the Chokai expected to return to its Sasebo, Nagasaki Prefecture, home port around September, signaling full operationalization of enhanced strike readiness.
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13 Articles
Japan upgrades ship with Tomahawk missiles. Why it might pose a threat to China
Japan has upgraded a naval vessel with capabilities to fire long-range Tomahawk missiles, with the first firing test expected this summer – a move experts said would pose a security threat to China. The Aegis destroyer Chokai “completed modifications and crew training” in the US that started in October, “confirming its acquisition of Tomahawk missile launch capabilities”, Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said on Friday. He said a cerem…
Japan’s MSDF Destroyer Modified to Launch Tomahawks
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — The Defense Ministry announced Friday (Japan time ) that the Maritime Self-Defense Force Aegis-equipped destroyer Chokai had completed modifications in the United States and is now capable of launching long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Japan equips Chokai ship with Tomahawk missiles by expanding its long-range attack capabilities
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