Japan's destroyer Chokai fires Tomahawk missiles in first Pacific test
Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force launched its inaugural Tomahawk cruise missile trial from the destroyer Chokai in the Pacific Ocean.
The Aegis-equipped destroyer Chokai carried out a test launch of U.S.-made Tomahawk missiles off the U.S. coast, marking Japan's first such firing. The exercise supports the nation’s 2022 security plan that allows strike capabilities while adhering to its pacifist constitution. After the trial, the ship will head back to its home base in Sasebo before joining the fleet with the new armament. All eight of Japan’s Aegis destroyers are slated to receive Tomahawk missiles.
Why it matters
The test shows Japan expanding its strike capability, altering regional security dynamics.
In this story
Tomahawk cruise missiledestroyer ChokaiAegistest-firingJapan defensePacific Ocean