US ally’s 620-mile range missile system poses threat to China, boosts strike capabilities

Japan’s Ground Self-Defense Force has fielded two domestically developed Type 25 missile systems, including an upgraded surface-to-ship missile and a hypersonic glide vehicle.

The upgraded surface-to-ship missile can reach about 620 miles (1,000 km), expanding Japan’s ability to strike distant naval and selected land targets.

The HVGP is an initial hypersonic glide weapon with a range of several hundred kilometers and further deployments are planned.

Future plans include adapting the missile for ship and aircraft launch and wider integration across land, sea, and air forces.