Japan Fires Missile on Domestic Soil for First Time

In a landmark move, Japan executed its first-ever live missile test within its own borders, signaling a strategic shift in its defense posture amid mounting regional tensions.

The Type 88 anti-ship missile was launched from the Shizunai training range on Japan's Hokkaido island on June 24. Photo: AP

On June 24, 2025, the Japan Ground Self‑Defense Force’s 1st Artillery Brigade launched a Type 88 short-range, surface‑to‑ship training missile from the Shizunai Anti‑Air Firing Range in northern Hokkaido. The projectile successfully hit an unmanned boat positioned about 40 km (24 miles) off the island’s southern coast.

Until now, Japan had relied on U.S. and Australian ranges for live‑fire drills due to limited domestic space and safety concerns. However, growing logistical costs—exacerbated by a weaker yen—and restricted access abroad prompted Tokyo to move training operations home.

Approximately 300 personnel participated in the launch, with the government planning another test by June 29. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized that the drill aimed to “boost personnel readiness” and was not directed at any specific country.

However, the exercise sparked local opposition: dozens of protesters gathered outside a nearby military base, warning it could escalate regional tensions and risk Japan’s involvement in future conflicts.

This historic test aligns with Japan’s 2022 security strategy, which expands its military capabilities in response to China’s rising assertiveness and joint maneuvers with Russia near Japanese waters. It also marks a departure from Japan’s traditional post‑WWII self‑defense policy.

Looking ahead, Tokyo plans to field long-range cruise missiles—including U.S.-purchased Tomahawks—later this year and is developing the domestically-produced Type 12 missile, with a projected range of ~1,000 km (about 620 miles), ten times that of the Type 88.

Additionally, Japan is preparing to build a new missile range on Minamitorishima—its easternmost island—following recent Chinese naval activity there.

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