The U.S. Will Deploy NMESIS Near Taiwan for the First Time — Bloomberg

The U.S. plans to deploy the NMESIS anti-ship missile system on the Japanese island of Yonaguni, near Taiwan, in late October. According to Bloomberg, this move could provoke a negative reaction from China.

 

According to a source familiar with the matter, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps plan to deploy the NMESIS system to Yonaguni during the bilateral U.S.-Japan “Keen Sword” exercises. The Japanese military may also deploy its own anti-ship missile systems and anti-aircraft missile systems on the island. This is evident from the general exercise plan published on October 2 on the island’s official website.

Yonaguni is located just 110 km east of Taiwan and is the closest Japanese-controlled territory to it. China considers Taiwan to be its territory.

As Bloomberg notes, the potential deployment of missile systems and other military equipment on Yonaguni would mark a step forward compared to previous exercises on the island.

The range of the U.S. NMESIS system is approximately 185 km. According to the agency’s assessment, this means that the system deployed on Yonaguni would be capable of striking ships in the vicinity of Taiwan.

Last year, the U.S. military already conducted cargo delivery exercises on the island. At that time, they simulated the establishment of a forward operating base that might be needed in the event of a regional crisis. Beijing has previously reacted negatively to plans to strengthen the military presence near Taiwan.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Japan’s intention to permanently deploy surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni starting in 2030 could heighten regional tensions and provoke a military confrontation. Chinese state media also criticized the U.S. decision to deploy the NMESIS system to the Philippines for military exercises in 2025.

The Keen Sword exercises take place every two years and are among the largest joint military exercises between the U.S. and Japan. This year, the maneuvers will take place from October 19 to 29 in the southern chain of Japanese islands. According to Bloomberg, Washington and Tokyo are seeking to make the training more realistic in preparation for a potential regional crisis, particularly a Chinese attempt to seize Taiwan.

Source: Bloomberg

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