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Japan to Deploy Missiles Near Taiwan by 2031

Published February 25, 2026, 09:12
Japan to Deploy Missiles Near Taiwan by 2031

Japan plans to deploy ground-to-air missiles on the remote island of Yonaguni near Taiwan by March 2031, the country’s defense minister announced. This plan was initially announced in 2022, but a specific timeline is being set for the first time. The decision comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with China considering Taiwan part of its territory and not excluding the use of force for 'reunification.' Yonaguni is located a short distance from Taiwan, just 110 kilometers from its shores. Tensions between Japan and China have escalated recently, with Japan implying that it would activate its Self-Defense Forces in the event of an attack on Taiwan. The deployment of missiles to Yonaguni comes days after China imposed export restrictions on 20 Japanese companies, citing national security concerns. The missiles to be deployed are medium-range, capable of intercepting aircraft and missiles, with a range of 50 kilometers and the ability to track up to 100 targets simultaneously. China has yet to react to the announcement, but previously accused Japan of trying to create tension in the region.