Briefings on missile deployment held in Kumamoto, Japan

Briefings on missile deployment held in Kumamoto, Japan

The Defense Ministry has briefed residents in Kumamoto City, southwestern Japan, where extended-range missiles at a Ground Self-Defense Force camp are deployed.

A total of about 220 people took part in three briefing sessions held at the GSDF's Camp Kengun in the city on Saturday.

Type-25 surface-to-ship guided missiles have been deployed at the camp since March this year. The weapon is designed to attack ships and other vessels from the ground.

The missiles have a range of about 1,000 kilometers. The ministry says they will also provide counterstrike capabilities against the bases of potential adversaries in the event of an emergency.

In Saturday's briefings, defense ministry officials first explained the security environment and the strengthening of Japan's defense system.

The participants then moved to the venue where the launch equipment is located. Officials provided an outline of the equipment and explained that the missile bodies are larger than previous versions.

The officials did not show the actual missiles, citing them as a "defense secret."

The residents were permitted to freely observe the launch equipment and ask questions of the officials in charge.

Among residents who participated, one reportedly asked how the missiles will be operated, but the officials replied they cannot give details.

A male participant in his 50s said he thought releasing information to the public on the missile deployment is a positive move.

A man in his 60s said defense officials did not respond to concerns that Kumamoto could become a target of attacks due to hosting the missiles. He said another session is needed so that people can demand a response.