Japan conducts 1st surface-to-ship missile test on own territory

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) on Tuesday conducted its first training exercise with the Type 88 surface-to-ship missile at the Shizunai anti-aircraft firing range in Hokkaido, local media reported.

As the Type 88 has a range of about 100 kilometers, previous training was conducted abroad due to its wide operational footprint, Kyodo News reported.

Another live-fire test is planned before the exercise concludes on June 29.

Before the exercise, protesters have gathered to voice their concern that the training could set a precedent, potentially normalizing domestic missile drills in the future, which is "unacceptable."

In addition to the Type 88, the GSDF also operates the newer Type 12 surface-to-ship missile. Japan's Ministry of Defense is currently developing an enhanced version of the Type 12 with an extended range of approximately 1,000 kilometers, according to Kyodo News.