Japan Showcases Long-Range Missiles in Largest Ever Live-Fire Exercise

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) demonstrated its military capabilities during its largest annual live-fire exercise, the "Fuji Comprehensive Firepower Exercise," held at the East Fuji Maneuver Area on July 7. The event mobilized around 3,000 personnel and featured a wide array of modern military hardware.

Key assets on display included the Type 16 maneuver combat vehicle and AH-1S Cobra attack helicopters, which participated in simulated combat scenarios. The exercise was designed to showcase the GSDF's ability to respond to enemy aggression and conduct counterattacks, particularly in the context of defending remote islands.

A significant highlight of this year's exercise was the debut of the Type 25 High-Speed Glide Missile, a long-range weapon system. This missile is part of Japan's developing capability to strike enemy bases, a move that reflects the evolving security landscape in the region and Japan's increasing focus on its defense posture.