Japan will position Type 12 counter-strike missiles in Kyushu by month’s end, a move seen as bolstering defences amid rising tensions with Beijing.

TOKYO: Japan will deploy long-range counter-strike missiles in a southwestern region near China by the end of March.

Officials confirmed the deployment of Type 12 surface-to-ship missiles to Kumamoto in the Kyushu region.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara stated that the defence ministry would brief local residents once preparations are complete.

The move aims to shore up Japan’s military capacity as China increases naval activities in the East China Sea.

The missiles, with a reported range of 1,000 kilometres, are intended for Japan’s “counter-strike” capacity.

This capability would be used to hit enemy bases if Japan comes under direct attack.

Tensions with Beijing escalated after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hinted in November at possible military intervention regarding Taiwan.

China views Taiwan as its territory and has not ruled out using force.

Since Takaichi’s remark, Beijing has imposed economic pressure and discouraged Chinese tourism to Japan.

Local media reported a missile launcher was delivered to Kumamoto overnight without advance notice.

The delivery prompted dozens of opponents to stage a protest in front of a local military base.

Critics argue the deployment could make the area a target for potential enemy attacks.

 The Sun Malaysia