Fact Check: Japan Plans to Deploy Long-Range Cruise Missiles, Including U.S. Tomahawks
What We Know
Japan has officially signed an agreement with the United States to purchase up to 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles. This decision is part of Japan's broader military buildup in response to increasing regional threats, particularly from China and North Korea. The agreement was signed on January 18, 2023, and includes plans to accelerate the deployment of these missiles, with some expected to be operational by fiscal year 2025, a year earlier than initially planned (AP News).
The Tomahawk missiles are capable of being launched from various platforms, including warships, and can hit targets up to 1,600 kilometers (approximately 1,000 miles) away (Wikipedia). Japan's Defense Minister Minoru Kihara has indicated that the country is facing its "severest" security environment since World War II, prompting this significant military enhancement (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that Japan plans to deploy long-range cruise missiles, including U.S. Tomahawks, is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press reports on the formal agreement between Japan and the U.S. for the procurement of these missiles, highlighting the strategic context of Japan's military expansion (AP News).
Additionally, a report from Defense News confirms the details of the missile purchase and Japan's intent to enhance its military capabilities in light of regional threats (Defense News). Furthermore, a recent article from The Washington Post states that Japan is actively working on deploying these long-range cruise missiles, including the Tomahawks, starting later this year (Washington Post).
While there are discussions about Japan developing its own missile systems, the immediate focus remains on the procurement and deployment of U.S. Tomahawks, which underscores Japan's reliance on U.S. military technology amidst rising security concerns (Asia Times).
The sources used in this analysis are generally reliable, with the Associated Press and Defense News being well-respected news organizations. Wikipedia, while useful for general information, should be cross-referenced with primary sources for accuracy.
Conclusion
The claim that "Japan plans to deploy long-range cruise missiles, including U.S. Tomahawks" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms Japan's agreement to purchase these missiles and its plans to accelerate their deployment in response to heightened security threats in the region.
Sources
- Japan signs agreement to purchase 400 Tomahawk missiles as US envoy ...
- Tomahawk (missile family) - Wikipedia
- Japan conducts first missile test on its own territory as part ...
- Japan's big missile plans face hurdles at home and in the US
- Japan buys hundreds of Tomahawk missiles from United States - Defense News
- Japan's Tomahawk-like missile shows fading faith in US
