On June 8th, the Ground Self-Defense Force unveiled its long-range missile launcher vehicle at the Higashi-Fuji training area in Shizuoka Prefecture. This marked the first public display of the vehicle, designed to engage enemy ships and bases as part of Japan's "counterstrike" capabilities. The event was part of the Fuji Firepower Exercise, the GSDF's largest live-fire drill.
The showcased vehicle is designed to launch the upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile (12SSM). This enhanced missile boasts a range of 1,000 kilometers, significantly extending its reach compared to its previous iteration. Furthermore, the 12SSM incorporates stealth technology, making it harder for adversaries to detect. Its primary function is to act as a standoff missile, capable of striking targets from a distance beyond the enemy's reach.
During the exercise, the vehicle demonstrated combat maneuvers, including the elevation of its four launchers. The vehicle underwent its initial missile test-firing on Niijima island, south of Tokyo, in the previous year. Mass production of the launch vehicle commenced in fiscal year 2023, with the growing military presence of China as a key consideration.
Deployment of these launch vehicles is scheduled to begin this fiscal year, with plans to equip seven surface-to-ship missile regiments across Japan, from Hokkaido to Okinawa Prefecture. The Fuji Firepower Exercise allocated approximately 870 million yen for ammunition. In an effort to address personnel shortages, the Self-Defense Forces invited a large number of students and their parents to the drill, which was also broadcast online.
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