Japan is conducting trials of its first destroyer equipped with Tomahawk missiles — BI
The first Japanese destroyer, the JS Chokai, equipped with American Tomahawk cruise missiles, is preparing to begin combat trials.
Business Insider reports this.
The ship’s modernization has been fully completed, marking a new phase in strengthening the defense capabilities of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
According to the country’s Ministry of Defense, the ship is expected to be fully operational in the coming months following a series of test launches.
The process of rearming the destroyer and intensive crew training took place directly in the United States as part of a strategic agreement.
Japan plans to significantly expand its missile arsenal by purchasing up to 400 missiles of various types by 2027.
Tomahawk missiles are renowned for their exceptional accuracy and ability to strike targets at ranges exceeding 1,600 km, including both land-based and maritime targets.
In addition to purchasing American weapons, Tokyo is actively investing in the development of its own long-range strike systems.
In particular, work is underway to modernize the Type 12 missile and develop hypersonic systems designed for the effective defense of remote islands.
Security experts note that such steps indicate a fundamental shift in Japan’s defense doctrine.
The country is gradually moving away from purely passive defense, favoring a more flexible and long-range strategy to deter potential threats in the Indo-Pacific region.
The main driver of this militarization is growing tension in relations with China and the need to protect sovereignty in disputed waters.
At the same time, analysts warn that the widespread use of Tomahawks in modern conflicts places a significant strain on production capacity.
As a reminder, Japan has deployed domestically produced long-range missiles for the first time.
Japanis preparing restrictions for tourists by 2030.
Additionally, China has launched two trade investigations into U.S. actions.
Japan will downgradethe status of its relations with China in its 2026 diplomatic report.
