Japan GSDF displays long-range Type-25 missile equipment to public
KUMAMOTO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force on Saturday invited selected residents to see equipment for the recently deployed long-rang
The Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) displayed long-range Type-25 surface-to-ship guided missile equipment to the public in Kumamoto, southwestern Japan, on Saturday, aiming to alleviate local concerns. The Type-25 missile, a domestically-produced weapon, can travel approximately 1,000 kilometers and poses a potential threat to coastal areas of mainland China.
The SDF operates the missile from Camp Kengun in Kumamoto Prefecture. Around 220 people attended the event at the camp in Higashi Ward, where they could view the launcher and an ammunition transport vehicle. The Type-25 missile is set to be part of a joint Japan-U.S. drill, Keen Sword, later this month.
Residents expressed concerns that the area could be targeted in an emergency. Yukiko Kaikita, a member of a citizens' group, emphasized the need for a public information session where SDF members could interact with citizens and answer questions. However, the event was organized as an exhibition rather than an interactive session.
Some residents feared becoming targets in case of an emergency. Maki Kushida, an official from the Kyushu Defense Bureau, stated that the event provided an opportunity for people to better understand the missile's capabilities, though she did not disclose further details.
A woman from Kumamoto, aged 71, mentioned that SDF members informed attendees they could not answer questions regarding operational matters. She felt the event did not address her concerns. The event, initially scheduled for August, was postponed following a powerful earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture on July 28.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
