Japan Deploys First Long-Range Missile System at Kumamoto Base

Mar 17, 2026 | News On Japan

Kumamoto, Mar 17, 2026 (News On Japan) - Equipment including Japan’s first domestically deployed long-range missile launchers was unveiled ahead of its placement at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Camp Kengun in Kumamoto City, where it was shown to local officials including the governor and mayor.

The upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missile, with a range of approximately 1,000 kilometers and capable of targeting enemy bases, will be deployed at Camp Kengun as a key component in the defense of Japan’s southwestern islands, marking the first such deployment within the country.

On March 9th, the Kyushu Defense Bureau opened the facility to Kumamoto Governor Kimura and Kumamoto Mayor Onishi, presenting the missile launchers and related equipment that had been transported to the base and explaining their operational roles.

Kimura said he had requested that authorities continue providing careful explanations to address public concerns, adding that officials had agreed to do so.

The equipment was also displayed to prefectural assembly members and local community representatives, with full deployment scheduled for completion on March 31st.

Source: FNN

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