Fact Check: Japan conducts first-ever surface-to-ship missile test on home soil
What We Know
On June 24, 2025, Japan's military conducted its first-ever missile test on its own territory, specifically test-firing a Type 88 surface-to-ship missile at the Shizunai Anti-Air Firing Range located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island. This event marks a significant shift in Japan's military policy, as prior missile tests were conducted in the territories of the United States and Australia due to safety and space limitations (AP News, Defense News). The missile was aimed at an unmanned boat approximately 40 kilometers off the southern coast of Hokkaido, and the test was deemed successful by military officials (AP News, Independent).
Japan's military buildup is largely motivated by concerns over China's increasing assertiveness in regional waters. The test is part of a broader strategy to enhance Japan's self-defense capabilities, which has evolved significantly since the adoption of a new security strategy in 2022, identifying China as the primary strategic challenge (AP News, Defense News).
Analysis
The claim that Japan conducted its first-ever surface-to-ship missile test on home soil is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press and Defense News both confirm the details of the missile test, including the type of missile used, the location of the test, and the context surrounding Japan's military policy changes (AP News, Defense News).
The reliability of these sources is high; the Associated Press is a well-established news organization known for its rigorous fact-checking and journalistic standards. Similarly, Defense News specializes in military and defense reporting, providing in-depth analysis and coverage of global defense issues.
While there are concerns expressed by some groups regarding the implications of Japan's military expansion, including protests against the missile tests, these do not detract from the factual accuracy of the claim itself. The test's successful execution and its historical significance as Japan's first domestic missile test are well-documented (AP News, Independent).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
Japan indeed conducted its first-ever surface-to-ship missile test on home soil on June 24, 2025. This event is significant as it reflects Japan's evolving military strategy in response to regional security challenges, particularly from China. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms the accuracy of this claim.
