After long-range missiles, Japan to introduce long-range attack drones

According to a report by Yomiuri Shimbun on April 1, the Japanese government and the Liberal Democratic Party have begun considering introducing long-range attack drones into the Self-Defense Forces.

The media reported: By combining with "long-range missiles," Japan could launch attacks from beyond enemy range against enemy ships and other vessels, enhancing its counterattack capability and increasing deterrence against China and other countries.

The Japanese government plans to include this initiative in its three security documents, including the revised defense capability development plan expected before year-end. Multiple officials from the government and ruling party have revealed this information.

The Self-Defense Forces' long-range attack drone program is part of a broader war preparedness strategy based on new operational methods observed in the Ukraine-Russia battlefield, as well as military actions by the U.S.-Israel coalition and Iran.

In the future, Japan could carry out "joint attacks" using long-range missiles and drones, making them harder to intercept.

The planned drones are expected to be suicide-type drones with a cruising range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. To extend the reach of counterattacks, additional models are also being considered—those capable of being launched from aircraft and submarines, as well as those able to operate underwater or on the water surface.

Long-range missiles include the Type 25 ground-to-ship missile, with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers, deployed at the Ground Self-Defense Force base in Kumamoto Prefecture, and the U.S.-made cruise missile "Tomahawk," with a range over 1,600 kilometers.

If Japan acquires attack drones that are cheaper than missiles and easier to procure in large quantities, combat capabilities could be significantly enhanced.

The United States deployed LUCAS missiles with a range up to 1,000 kilometers and over 1,000 meters during operations against Iran, while Iran retaliated using its own Shahed drones.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861227103323466/

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