Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) has conducted its first-ever surface-to-ship missile exercise on domestic territory, marking a significant shift in the country’s defense posture amid regional security concerns.
The test was carried out at the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range on the northern island of Hokkaido, where around 300 personnel from the GSDF’s 1st Artillery Brigade fired Type 88 missiles at an unmanned target vessel located roughly 40 kilometers offshore.
The Type 88 missile, which has a range of about 100 kilometers, is typically tested abroad due to its operational footprint. This marks the first time Japan has used its own territory for a live-fire test involving this system. The GSDF plans another live-fire exercise before the training concludes on June 29.
The move comes as Japan prepares to introduce long-range cruise missiles, including U.S.-made Tomahawks, later this year. In parallel, the Ministry of Defense is developing an upgraded version of the domestically produced Type 12 surface-to-ship missile, expected to have a range of approximately 1,000 kilometers.
Local media reported that the exercise triggered public demonstrations, with protesters voicing concern that conducting missile drills on Japanese soil could set a precedent and potentially normalize such activities.
The Ministry of Defense has not commented on whether future tests of longer-range systems will also be held within Japan.
