Type 88 Surface-to-Ship Missile

Type 88 Surface-to-Ship Missile: Recently, Japan conducted its first-ever missile test within its own territory, signaling a significant shift in its defence posture.

o The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) launched a Type 88 surface-to-ship missile from the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range in Hokkaido, the country’s northernmost main island.

• Key Highlights : Reflects Japan’s military buildup and pursuit of strike-back capabilities

o Aims to deter China’s growing naval presence and joint China-Russia military activity near Japanese coasts

o Japan broke from its self-defense-only posture in 2022 under a new five-year national security strategy

• Missile Development : Type 88: Developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Range: ~100 km (62 miles) and mounted on trucks for mobility.

o Type 12 (under development): Range: ~1,000 km (620 miles) and will provide 10 times the range of Type 88

o Tomahawk Missiles: Japan will begin deploying U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missiles New Missile Range: