Amid concerns over the Trump administration’s stance on security treaties and continued regional tensions, Japan is planning to deploy long-range missiles on its southern island of Kyushu. The missiles, which have a range of about 1,000 kilometers, would be able to strike targets on the coasts of North Korea and China. The missiles are scheduled to be deployed at two bases, including an existing missile garrison, next year.
Japan will strengthen defenses of the strategically important Okinawa island chain as part of developing Japan’s “counterattack capability” in the event of an attack, Kyodo News reported, citing government sources.
“The threat from China and North Korea is growing, so it is natural for Japan to counter it with more effective weapons systems,” said Yoichi Shimada, professor emeritus at Fukui Prefectural University. “I think Japan should take steps like quickly deploying long-range missiles to build stronger security.”
On March 6, US President Donald Trump complained, “We have a great relationship with Japan. But we have an interesting agreement with Japan, which is that America will defend them. But we don’t have to defend them. That’s how the agreement is written … and by the way, they make a fortune with us economically. I really want to know who makes these agreements?”
Trump’s comments have worried Japan. According to Robert Dujarric of Temple University in Tokyo, “It is clear to those who are watching this carefully that the US-Japan alliance is in a bad state. Even if China attacks Japan, there is no guarantee that America will do anything under Trump. That is a big problem.” The Guardian, Kyodo News