Japan Confirms Introduction of Two New Aegis Ships as Alternative to 'Aegis Ashore'

Decision at Cabinet Meeting on 18th... 'Standoff' Missile Development Also Planned

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Japan plans to build two new Aegis destroyers and develop 'stand-off' missiles that can be launched from outside the enemy's attack range as an alternative to suspending the deployment plan of the ground-based missile interception system 'Aegis Ashore.'

According to NHK and other sources on the 18th, the Japanese government decided on missile defense policies including these measures at a cabinet meeting that day. NHK reported that the policy did not directly mention possessing the capability to intercept ballistic missiles within enemy territory, previously referred to as 'enemy base strike capability,' but only stated that the government will continuously review strengthening deterrence.

Earlier, the Japanese government had been promoting the introduction of two US-made Aegis Ashore units since late 2017 to prepare for possible ballistic missile attacks from North Korea. However, in June during former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's administration, the plan was abruptly halted and alternatives have been under consideration. The reason cited was a technical problem where the missile propulsion units of Aegis Ashore could fall in unintended locations.

Subsequently, the Japanese government weighed options including adding more Aegis destroyers equipped with missile interception capabilities and utilizing civilian vessels or offshore structures as missile launch platforms. Ultimately, it chose to construct new Aegis destroyers. The government named the newly built destroyers 'Aegis System Equipped Ships' and specified the Maritime Self-Defense Force as the operator.

Details such as additional functions and design features of the new Aegis destroyers will be reviewed later. The new destroyers are expected to use the radar (SPY7) and missile launch systems already contracted for Aegis Ashore deployment.

Japan also decided to develop stand-off missiles capable of striking from beyond the enemy's attack range. This involves extending the range of the Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Guided Missile used by the Ground Self-Defense Force to create Japan's first stand-off missile. The government argued that stand-off missiles are necessary to effectively block vessels attempting to invade the country while ensuring the safety of Self-Defense Force personnel.

Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi, the younger brother of former Prime Minister Abe, stated, "With the threat from North Korean missiles escalating against our country, we must establish a robust missile defense posture." He added, "We will carefully review what equipment to load on the Aegis System Equipped Ships and how to operate them while monitoring future developments."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.