
Japan Boosting Long-Range Firepower With Stealthy US Missiles
This month, multiple media outlets reported that the US approved the sale of 16 AGM-158B JASSM-ERs (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles-Extended Range) to Japan.
The US$39 million package includes advanced training munitions, anti-jam GPS receivers, support equipment and software, according to the reports. The timing coincides with escalating tensions involving China's territorial assertiveness and North Korea's relentless missile provocations.
The JASSM-ER is a highly sophisticated air-launched cruise missile developed by the US Air Force. With a range of approximately 1,000 kilometers-nearly three times that of its predecessor-it is tailored for precision strikes against high-value targets.
The missile is equipped with a 450-kilogram WDU-42/B penetrator warhead guided by INS/GPS systems and an infrared seeker for terminal guidance. Its integration with Japan's F-15J and F-35 fighters ensures compatibility with advanced platforms, further bolstering its utility.
This acquisition aligns with Japan's broader defense reforms, as outlined in its 2024 annual defense white paper , which prioritizes the acquisition of standoff capabilities.
These reforms emphasize counterstrike capabilities and enhanced missile systems as vital elements of Japan's response to evolving regional threats. However, achieving these objectives has significant challenges, particularly in target detection and tracking.
While the JASSM-ER is a formidable asset, analysts like Veerle Nouwens note that Japan's capability to employ such systems effectively is hindered by gaps in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR).

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Most popular stories
Market Research

- Manuka Honey Market Report 2024, Industry Growth, Size, Share, Top Compan...
- Modular Kitchen Market 2024, Industry Growth, Share, Size, Key Players An...
- Acrylamide Production Cost Analysis Report: A Comprehensive Assessment Of...
- Fish Sauce Market 2024, Industry Trends, Growth, Demand And Analysis Repo...
- Australia Foreign Exchange Market Size, Growth, Industry Demand And Forec...
- Cold Pressed Oil Market Trends 2024, Leading Companies Share, Size And Fo...
- Pasta Sauce Market 2024, Industry Growth, Share, Size, Key Players Analys...
Comments
No comment