Japan Activates New Missile Unit in Ōita Prefecture
On March 30, 2025, Japan's Ministry of Defense officially established the 8th Surface-to-Ship Missile Regiment at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's (JGSDF) Yufuin garrison in Ōita Prefecture. This new unit comprises approximately 300 personnel and is equipped with the Type 12 surface-to-ship missile system, which currently boasts a range of several hundred kilometers.
The activation ceremony featured State Defense Minister Toshiro Honda presenting the unit's flag to its commander, Colonel Daisaku Yamada. This event marks the completion of Japan's plan to deploy seven surface-to-ship missile regiments, a key component of its recent defense buildup strategy.
Enhanced Capabilities of the Type 12 Missile
The Type 12 missile system, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has undergone significant upgrades to enhance Japan's defensive capabilities. Originally introduced with a range of approximately 200 kilometers, the improved version aims to extend this reach to at least 900 kilometers, with future enhancements targeting up to 1,200 kilometers. These advancements enable coverage of strategic areas, including parts of China's coastal regions and the entirety of North Korea, depending on deployment locations.
In addition to increased range, the upgraded Type 12 missile features a stealthier design with reduced radar cross-section, improving its survivability against enemy defenses. It also incorporates advanced guidance systems, such as the Up-to-Date Command (UDTC) technology, allowing for real-time target information updates via satellite communications. This capability enhances accuracy against moving targets, providing a significant boost to Japan's deterrence posture.
Strategic Implications and Regional Security
The establishment of the missile unit in Ōita Prefecture reflects Japan's broader shift towards enhancing its "counterstrike capability" amid rising regional tensions. By deploying long-range missiles in the southwestern region, Japan aims to deter potential threats from neighboring countries. Defense planners are focusing on public outreach and infrastructure preparations to support the integration of these advanced systems.
The Yufuin-based regiment joins existing units in Okinawa, Kumamoto, Aomori, and Hokkaido, forming a comprehensive network of missile regiments across the country. This strategic deployment underscores Japan's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities in response to evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
