Japan displays new hypersonic missile launcher in Shizuoka defence drill
The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force has revealed the launcher for its Type 25 high-speed glide missile for the first time since deployment, during a live-fire exercise simulating the defence of remote islands.
The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) conducted a large-scale live-fire exercise at a training ground in Shizuoka Prefecture on 7 June 2026, marking the first public disclosure of the launcher for the Type 25 high-speed glide missile since its deployment. The exercise was designed to simulate the defence of remote islands, a strategic priority for Tokyo as regional tensions persist.
During the drill, the JGSDF showcased the launcher for the long-range missile, which is considered capable of being used as a counterstrike capability. This public display highlights the operationalisation of a system that represents a significant departure from Japan’s previous strictly defensive postures, aligning with the government’s policy to retain the ability to strike enemy bases if an attack is imminent.
The Type 25 high-speed glide missile, referred to in Japanese media as the "25-shiki kousoku kakudan," is a long-range system developed to enhance Japan’s deterrent capabilities. While the source material does not detail the exact range or technical specifications of the weapon, its inclusion in the live-fire exercise signals its readiness for deployment in scenarios involving the protection of southern territories.
The choice of Shizuoka Prefecture as the training ground is geographically relevant to the defence of southern islands, providing a strategic backdrop for the demonstration. The exercise served not only as a tactical drill but also as a visible assertion of Japan’s evolving defence policy, which now explicitly incorporates counterstrike options into its military planning.
This development comes amid broader regional security concerns, with Japan seeking to bolster its defensive infrastructure in response to perceived threats. The public reveal of the Type 25 launcher underscores the JGSDF’s commitment to integrating advanced missile systems into its operational framework, reinforcing the nation’s stance on national security and territorial integrity.
