Japanese Army Tests Type 12 Anti-ship Missile During Australian Exercise

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) conducted a live fire demonstration of a Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile (SSM) off the Australian east coast on Friday.

The test firing is significant as Japan has been working on increasing the range of the type-12 missile to deter Chinese and North Korean warships.

The live fire was part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 and marked the first time the JGSDF has tested the capability in Australia, an Australian MoD release said

The Type 12 SSM, which did not include explosive ordnance, was launched from a truck-mounted system at Beecroft Weapons Range and fired at an unmanned target in the East Australia Exercise Area off the coast of Jervis Bay.

Exercise Director, Brigadier Damian Hill, said Talisman Sabre was an excellent opportunity to train alongside our allies and regional partners. “We undertake military training exercises with Japan and other partners regularly, but Exercise Talisman Sabre is a good opportunity to conduct more complex training activities together, like this missile firing.”

JGSDF Chief of Staff, General Morishita Yasunori said the live-fire activity helped build relationships.

“I believe the SSM firing exercise, in conjunction with the Australian Navy, will enhance a high level of trust between Australia and Japan.”