Japan ruling party proposes strike capability halting enemy missile attacks

Giving long range munitions to Japan’s Self Defence Forces is a controversial issue for a country that renounced the right to wage war after its defeat in World War Two. The proposal could also anger China and Russia, which could fall within range of any new strike weapons.

Japan ruling party proposes strike capability halting enemy missile attacks. A ruling party committee on Friday approved a proposal for Japan. Furthermore, to acquire capabilities to halt ballistic missile attacks. Within enemy territory, bringing the pacifist nation a step closer. Also to acquiring weapons able to strike North Korea.

Giving long range munitions to Japan’s Self Defence Forces is a controversial issue. For a country that renounced the right to wage war after its defeat in World War Two. The proposal could also anger China and Russia, which could fall within range of any new strike weapons.

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“Our country needs to consider ways to strengthen deterrence. Including having the capability to halt ballistic missile attacks. Although, within the territory of our adversaries”. The proposal document said.

The proposals, crafted by senior Liberal Democratic Party lawmakers. However, including former defence minister Itsunori Onodera. But will be presented to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as early as next week.

The proposal “is to stay within the bounds of the constitution. And to comply with international law, that has not changed“. Onodera said at a briefing following policy committee meeting.

Japan Ready To Strike

The recommendations will be discussed by Japan’s National Security Council. Which is expected to finalize new defence policies by the end of September.

Abe has pushed for a more muscular military. And arguing Japan needs to respond to a deteriorating security environment in East Asia. As North Korea builds missiles and nuclear weapons. Moreover, China builds a modern, powerful military and Russian forces re-engage in the region.

A strike option is attractive. Because it is much easier to hit missiles on launch pads than warheads. In travel at several times the speed of sound. Finding mobile launchers to hit, however, require close surveillance with satellites. That Japan does not currently possess, meaning it would have to rely on help from ally. The United States.

The ruling party deliberations were prompted. By defence minister Kono Taro’s decision in June.Also to cancel two planned Aegis Ashore sites designed to track. And target incoming ballistic missiles from North Korea. Hence citing a risk posed to nearby residents from falling booster rockets and rising costs.

The LDP document included a recommendation that Japan considers how to acquire a defence radar system . Moreover, on a par with Lockheed Martin’s Aegis Ashore system. Also track other threats such as drones and cruise missiles.

Among proposals being considered by officials is locating the Aegis Ashore at other ground sites. Or putting the new powerful radar on ships. U.S. defence company Raytheon. Also has been lobbying senior LDP lawmakers with a proposal to choose its SPY-6 radar. Rather than using Lockheed’s system, sources earlier told Reuters.

“The government will make a decision regarding this by the end of September. And our thinking will be reflected in that”. Onodera said.

Source: Reuters