00:00Japan plans to deploy missiles to a remote western island near Taiwan by 2031 as tensions with China continue to
00:07simmer.
00:07This marks the first time Tokyo has set a clear timeline for the deployment since the plan was first announced
00:13in 2022.
00:16The missiles will be stationed on the island of Yonaguni, located just 110km from Taiwan's coast.
00:22The island currently hosts a coastal surveillance unit staffed by around 160 members of Japan's Self-Defense Force.
00:30That unit will be equipped with medium-range surface-to-air missiles capable of intercepting incoming aircraft and missiles.
00:38The Japanese-made system has a range of about 50km, provides 360-degree coverage and can track up to 100
00:46targets while engaging up to 12 simultaneously.
00:49The announcement comes a day after China imposed export curbs on 20 Japanese companies and entities, citing national security concerns.
00:59Tensions between Tokyo and Beijing have escalated since November, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanai Takechi said the country would consider
01:06using military force if China were to attack Taiwan.
Comments