Summary
Japan plans to place surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, near Taiwan, by March 2031. This decision comes amid rising tensions with China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory. China has not yet responded to this specific timeline announcement.
Key Facts
- Japan announced plans to deploy missiles on Yonaguni Island by 2031.
- Yonaguni Island is located 110km from Taiwan and can see Taiwan's shores on clear days.
- The plan was first announced in 2022, but now includes a timeline.
- China views Taiwan as a territory that should be part of China.
- Tensions have grown between Japan and China, especially after Japan mentioned defending Taiwan.
- Japan's defense minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, revealed the missile deployment timeline.
- The planned missiles will be medium-range and can target aircraft or incoming missiles.
- Japan aims to increase its defense capabilities on Yonaguni, which is currently used for surveillance.
