Japan to acquire 400 Tomahawk missiles to deter threats from Russia and North Korea

It is noted that the agreement was concluded against the backdrop of Japan's efforts to increase its military capabilities to counter regional security threats, particularly from China, North Korea, and Russia.

Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel signed an agreement in Tokyo for Japan to purchase 400 long-range Tomahawk missiles of American production.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense stated that this would strengthen the country's defense capabilities in the face of potential early-stage invasions, allowing the destruction and defeat of invading forces.

"In addition, as announced in October of last year, the Government of Japan has also decided to procure Tomahawk, which is complementary the indigenous stand-off missiles, one year ahead of schedule," the statement said.

When Japan will receive the missiles

According to the statement, Japan will ultimately acquire the missiles between the fiscal years 2025 and 2027.

The purchase took place amid China's aggressive maneuvers in the Indo-Pacific region, leading to increased tensions with Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, and other countries. These smaller countries sought assistance from the U.S. through trade agreements and military technologies.

Additionally, Japan expressed concern about the developing relations between Russia and North Korea, as North Korea continues efforts to develop nuclear and ballistic weapons.

Tomahawk missiles

The Tomahawk is a family of American multi-role, high-precision, subsonic cruise missiles with long-range capabilities, suitable for strategic and tactical purposes. They can be launched from submarines, surface ships, land-based platforms, and aircraft.

They fly at extremely low altitudes, following the terrain, and have been part of the U.S. Navy's and other military branches' arsenals since their introduction in 1983, being used in various significant military conflicts involving the U.S.

The estimated cost of a Tomahawk missile in 2014 was $1.45 million.

Japan and its stance toward Russia

It was reported today that the U.S., South Korea, and Japan condemned North Korea's military cooperation with Russia, involving the supply of weapons used in the war against Ukraine.

Reuters also reported that U.S. Deputy Finance Minister Wally Adeyemo would travel to Europe and Japan this month to coordinate with partners on the use of a new tool for sanctions against Russia.

In early January, Japan announced a $37 million aid package for Ukraine, earmarked for the purchase of drone detection systems.