BI: Japanese Destroyers Will Receive Tomahawks.

One of the ships is already on its way to the US for modifications and exercises.

Japan is beginning to integrate Tomahawk cruise missiles into its fleet, marking a significant step in building up the offensive capabilities of the Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), writes Business Insider.

Late last month, it was reported that the Kongo-class destroyer JS Chokai had sailed to the U.S. for modifications and crew training that will last about a year and is expected to be completed in September 2026.

The upgrades will allow the Chokai to carry Tomahawk missiles, and Tokyo will receive the first missile purchased from the U.S. before the ship returns home. Before sailing, the ship had already undergone training to load Tomahawk moulages under the guidance of U.S. Navy instructors, which helped the crew familiarize themselves with procedures for operating and preparing to use the weapon.

The Tomahawk deliveries have been several years in the making, with the U.S. announcing the sale of 400 missiles (200 Block IV and 200 Block V) and Japanese training for the launch system beginning as early as March 2024. Japan's Ministry of Defense has accelerated the integration of these weapons as part of a response to growing military pressure from China and a worsening security situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Block IV Tomahawk missiles have an estimated range of up to 1,600 km; the Block V has an even longer range and upgrades that increase its suitability for hitting both land and sea targets. Their accuracy and range allow them to strike from beyond the range of many enemy air defense systems, making these missiles a valuable addition to the JMSDF arsenal.

The integration of the Tomahawks will transform surface ships from a platform primarily focused on air and missile defense to one capable of long-range counterstrikes. In addition to destroyers, the missiles could be launched from submarines as well as the Army's new Typhon medium-range system, which has drawn protests from China.

The Tomahawks would complement the procurement of domestically produced Japanese missiles already underway, and together they would form the basis of Japan's enhanced long-range defense capability. The JMSDF said in a statement, "Our remote defense capabilities are steadily evolving as we strengthen ties with the U.S. Navy and build readiness."

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