- The U.S. approved a $900 million sale of SM-6 missiles to Japan, enhancing its multi-mission defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China and North Korea.
- Additional arms sales include 1,200 AMRAAMs for air superiority and 16 JASSM-ER long-range precision strike missiles, strengthening Japan’s defense posture.
- These deals aim to bolster Japan’s security, counter regional threats, and reinforce the U.S.-Japan alliance in the Indo-Pacific.
The U.S. government has approved three major weapons deals with Japan, signaling a significant push to strengthen the East Asian ally’s defense capabilities in the face of increasing aggression from China and North Korea. The latest announcement includes a proposed $900 million sale of 150 Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) Block I missiles, designed for multi-mission use, reflecting a growing commitment to bolstering regional security.
This move comes as tensions escalate in the Indo-Pacific region, with both China and North Korea amping up military activity near Japanese territories. These arms sales are part of a broader strategy aimed at fortifying Japan’s ability to respond to current and future threats while solidifying ties between Washington and Tokyo.
U.S. Approves Advanced Missiles for Japan
On Friday, the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) revealed that the U.S. State Department had greenlit Japan’s request to purchase SM-6 missiles, which are manufactured by Raytheon. These state-of-the-art missiles, capable of executing anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-ballistic missions, boast a range of 290 miles. They can be launched from warships or land-based systems like the Mid-Range Capability (MRC) system, giving Japan enhanced flexibility in its defense arsenal.
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Raytheon emphasized the missile’s cutting-edge features, stating that the SM-6 “fuses the best missile technology available into a modern weapon.” The DSCA added that this sale would “support U.S. foreign policy goals” and aid Japan in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Broader Arms Sales Strengthen Tokyo’s Defense Posture
In addition to the SM-6 missiles, the U.S. has also approved the sale of AIM-120D-3 and AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and AGM-158B/B-2 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles with Extended Range (JASSM-ER). Japan plans to purchase 1,200 AMRAAMs, which have a range of over 20 miles for aerial combat, and 16 JASSM-ERs, stealthy cruise missiles capable of striking targets more than 500 miles away.
These advanced weapons will significantly enhance Japan’s ability to counter aerial and ground threats. The AIM-120C-8 and AIM-120D-3 will improve its air superiority, while the JASSM-ERs will provide long-range precision strike capabilities. The DSCA assured that these deals would not alter the military balance in the region or harm U.S. defense readiness.
Rising Tensions with China and North Korea
China’s military has frequently deployed air and naval forces around Japan’s islands, escalating tensions in the region. These islands form part of the first island chain, a strategic blockade against Chinese maritime expansion. Meanwhile, North Korea continues to conduct missile tests, with projectiles landing near Japanese waters, further exacerbating security concerns.
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Japan’s efforts to modernize its defense systems align with its push to develop “stand-off defense capabilities,” which aim to intercept threats from a safe distance. The sale of the SM-6 missiles, along with the other advanced weaponry, underscores Japan’s proactive steps to deter potential aggression from its nuclear-armed neighbors.
Strengthening the U.S.-Japan Alliance
The U.S. and Japan have long been bound by a treaty of mutual cooperation and security, with Washington providing advanced defense technology to Tokyo for decades. From stealth fighter jets to missile systems, these partnerships have bolstered Japan’s military capabilities while reinforcing the U.S. presence in the region.
The DSCA stated that the proposed missile sales would “improve the security of a major ally” and advance the shared goal of political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific. This move also reflects the U.S.’s broader strategy to counter China’s growing influence and North Korea’s provocations by empowering its allies.
What’s Next for Japan’s Defense?
While these military sales are a major step forward, it remains unclear how quickly American defense contractors will deliver the missiles. Japan is keen to enhance its defense readiness as it navigates an increasingly volatile security environment. With these advanced systems, Tokyo strengthens its ability to safeguard its territory and deter threats from across its borders.
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