TOKYO, Jun 25 (NNN-NHK) – Japan’s Ground Self-Defence Force (GSDF), yesterday, conducted its first training exercise with the Type 88 surface-to-ship missile, at the Shizunai anti-aircraft firing range in Hokkaido, local media reported.
As the Type 88 has a range of about 100 kilometres, previous training was conducted abroad, due to its wide operational footprint, Kyodo News reported.
Another live-fire test is planned before the exercise concludes on Jun 29.
Before the exercise, protesters gathered to voice their concern that, the training could set a precedent, potentially normalising domestic missile drills in the future, which is “unacceptable.”
In addition to the Type 88, the GSDF also operates the newer Type 12 surface-to-ship missile. Japan’s Ministry of Defence is currently developing an enhanced version of the Type 12, with an extended range of approximately 1,000 kilometres, according to Kyodo News.– NNN-NHK
