Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force Conducts Public Test-Fire of "Tomahawk" Missiles, Breaking the Peace Constitution

Japan has been increasingly active in undermining the peace constitution and overturning the post-war order.

Following last year’s acquisition of Tomahawk missiles from the United States, Japan has now taken concrete action. According to the Defense Ministry on the 29th, the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s ship "Chihaya" successfully test-fired the missile in the Pacific Ocean with assistance from the U.S. military. This successful test marks the completion of all U.S.-led modifications to the "Chihaya."

At the same time, taking advantage of this U.S. modification opportunity, the "Chihaya" has transformed into the first Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel capable of stand-off strike operations using Tomahawk missiles. This clearly signifies that Japan’s maritime forces have broken through their long-standing focus on air defense and missile interception, and have now acquired long-range strike capabilities for the first time.

Under current plans, Japan has allocated approximately $700 million to conduct Tomahawk compatibility upgrades on four Aegis destroyers: "Kirishima," "Haguro," "Myōkō," and "Mogami." Additionally, Tomahawk missiles will also be deployed on two new large Aegis-equipped vessels currently under construction.

Although the missile test was successful, Japan is still unable to domestically produce Tomahawk missiles and remains fully dependent on U.S. supply. However, due to the heavy consumption of Tomahawks by U.S. forces during the Iran-Iraq conflict, the U.S. has informed Japan that the delivery of its ordered 400 missiles has been significantly delayed.

In light of the limited production capacity of U.S. defense industries, Japan is simultaneously accelerating the development of indigenous long-range missiles, such as the extended-range Type 12 anti-ship missile and hypersonic glide vehicles.

Regardless, Japan’s persistent pursuit of offensive long-range strike capabilities constitutes a blatant violation of the spirit of the peace constitution, and exposes the hypocrisy behind its self-proclaimed identity as a “peaceful nation” without reservation.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1872213137246217/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.