Fact Check: Japan Conducts First-Ever Missile Test on Its Own Territory
What We Know
On June 24, 2025, Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) conducted a missile test for the first time on its own territory. This test involved the firing of a Type 88 surface-to-ship short-range missile at the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island. Approximately 300 soldiers participated in this exercise, which targeted an unmanned boat situated about 40 kilometers off the southern coast of Hokkaido (AP News, U.S. News).
Prior to this event, Japan had conducted missile tests only in allied territories, such as the United States and Australia, due to space and safety constraints (AP News). The shift to conducting tests domestically is part of Japan's broader military strategy to enhance its self-defense capabilities amid growing concerns over China's assertiveness in regional waters (CTV News).
Analysis
The claim that Japan conducted its first missile test on its own territory is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press, a reputable news agency, reported the event in detail, confirming that this was indeed the first instance of a missile test occurring on Japanese soil (AP News). Similarly, U.S. News and Euronews corroborated this information, providing additional context about the missile type and the military exercise involved (U.S. News, Euronews).
The sources used in this fact check are reliable and well-regarded in the field of journalism. The Associated Press is known for its rigorous fact-checking standards and has a long history of reporting on international affairs. U.S. News and Euronews also maintain high journalistic standards and provide accurate reporting on global events. The consistency across these reports strengthens the credibility of the claim.
Moreover, the context surrounding Japan's military buildup, including its concerns about China and Russia, adds depth to the significance of this missile test. Japan's recent shift in defense policy, moving away from its pacifist stance, indicates a strategic pivot that aligns with the reported missile test (CTV News).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Japan conducted its first-ever missile test on its own territory is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that this event took place on June 24, 2025, marking a significant development in Japan's military capabilities and strategic posture in response to regional threats.
Sources
- Japan conducts its first anti-ship missile test on its own territory ... (https://apnews.com/article/japan-missile-test-143f17458a6be541997bc5f9e0b817e7)
- Japan Conducts Its First Missile Test on Its Own Territory (https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-06-24/japan-conducts-its-first-missile-test-on-its-own-territory)
- Japan conducts first missile test on its own territory (https://www.euronews.com/2025/06/24/japan-conducts-first-surface-to-ship-missile-test-on-its-own-territory-in-hokkaido)
- China news: Japan conducts missile test on Japanese territory (https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/article/japan-conducts-first-missile-test-on-its-own-territory-as-part-of-military-buildup-to-deter-china/)
