The Japanese government is weighing a sizable arms package, including as many as 400 American Tomahawk cruise missiles. This development was reported by DEA News, citing the Japanese newspaper Kyodo.
In mid February, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida indicated that Tokyo is considering the purchase of the latest modification of the Tomahawk missiles from the United States.
According to Kishida, the cruise missiles would feature the ability to operate despite potential interference. He emphasized that Japan seeks missiles with a range that surpasses the reach of what he described as enemy attack platforms.
During the briefing, Kishida did not disclose a specific purchase quantity.
Earlier remarks about a potential procurement were attributed to Yasukazu Hamada, the Minister of Defense of Japan, who reiterated the country’s interest in the system.
The plan floated is to obtain the missiles through the foreign military sales channel, a mechanism commonly used by the United States to provide defense equipment to allied nations.
Officials signaled that any contract would be aligned with Japan’s broader defense posture and budgetary planning for the coming years, aiming to strengthen deterrence and regional security in the face of evolving threats. The discussion reflects Tokyo’s ongoing effort to modernize its military capabilities and ensure interoperability with allied forces in activities ranging from joint exercises to rapid crisis response. Observers note that such purchases would require careful consultation with allies and careful consideration of international defense cooperation norms.
As the policy debate continues, analysts expect that the government will balance strategic value, cost, and alliance commitments while navigating domestic political considerations and the practicalities of deploying advanced missiles within a layered defense framework. The discussions are part of a wider regional security dialogue involving allied partners and defense producers, with the goal of maintaining stability and deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Any final decision would be subject to formal approval processes and budgetary appropriations, followed by the completion of the sale through established U.S. defense export procedures. Until a formal contract is signed, the discussions remain at the planning stage, with officials stressing that timing and sequencing will depend on parliamentary review and strategic assessments conducted in consultation with allied governments and defense ministries. (Kyodo)