Japan's KHI Prepares New Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile to Enhance Island Defense Capabilities

Japan is advancing a new era in defense technology through Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), which is developing a next-generation surface-to-ship missile (SSM) aimed at fortifying the country’s remote island defense. Set to undergo a prototype launch by 2027, this “New Anti-Ship Missile for the Defense of Remote Islands” will provide Japan’s defense forces with a long-range standoff capability, enabling them to neutralize threats from a safe distance, especially in the East China Sea—a region fraught with escalating tensions over the disputed Senkaku Islands.

A Strategic Shift Toward Stand-Off Defense

In recent years, Japan has recognized the need for advanced, long-range, and highly mobile defense technology to protect its far-flung territories. With a range of approximately 2,500 kilometers, the new KHI missile will be able to target bases well beyond Japan's borders, even reaching inland locations in China if deployed from western Japan. The missile’s purpose aligns with Japan’s recent shift towards counterstrike and standoff capabilities—a response to the increased naval presence and strategic posturing by China near disputed maritime territories.

This development fits within Japan’s broader defense initiatives, especially after the Japanese government approved a significant Defense Buildup Program in December 2022. This program earmarked funding for several defense projects focused on modular missile designs, improved radar cross-sections for stealth, and enhanced mobility for rapid deployment.

Design and Performance: Inspired by Advanced Western Systems

Visually, the new missile resembles the U.S. Tomahawk, which has set benchmarks globally for its range and precision in cruise missile design. Like the Tomahawk, the Japanese missile prototype shown at the Japan Aerospace show JA2024 features large main wings and a flush-mounted air intake, designed to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and sustain long-distance flights. These elements are instrumental for the missile’s speed, stability, and flight range, which are essential for its role in standoff defense.

Underneath its sleek exterior lies a highly efficient small turbofan engine known as the KJ300. This two-spool engine, exclusive to KHI’s new standoff missiles, provides a thrust of 3.58 kN (or roughly 365 kgf) under sea-level conditions. At just under a meter in length, this compact engine is crafted for fuel efficiency, allowing the missile to cover substantial distances while remaining economical. Its power and efficiency make it ideal for missiles intended to operate far beyond standard defense perimeters.

KHI's Development Goals and Future Testing Plans

KHI’s contract for the project spans five years (2023–2027), supported by the Japanese Ministry of Defense with an investment of ¥33.9 billion ($223 million). This funding will drive the missile’s research, development, and eventual prototype launch. According to Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), the missile will be fine-tuned to deliver not only increased range and mobility but also low radar cross-section (RCS) to enhance its stealth capabilities—a feature that allows it to evade detection and maintain a tactical advantage against hostile radar systems.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has also allocated additional funds in its 2024 budget for the “New Surface-to-Ship/Surface Precision Guided Missile” project. While related, this missile differs from the KHI's anti-ship missile and is tailored more for high-precision strikes with enhanced surface-to-ship and surface-to-surface versatility. Research from both projects will share technologies, particularly in radar evasion and precision guidance, with the ultimate aim of reducing costs by utilizing common design elements and modular components.

Addressing a Rising Threat Landscape

Japan’s strategic investment in these new missile systems reflects a pragmatic response to the evolving threat landscape, especially near its western shores. The Senkaku Islands have been a hotspot of contention, with Chinese naval and paramilitary vessels increasing their presence in contested waters. This missile will support Japan’s ability to deter and respond to potential incursions, providing a credible deterrent while underscoring Japan’s commitment to sovereignty over its islands.

With its potent combination of range, precision, and stealth, the new KHI missile aligns with the Japanese government's long-term vision for securing its territorial integrity and augmenting its defensive autonomy in the Asia-Pacific region. The anticipated launch in 2027 will be a crucial milestone, signaling Japan's readiness to protect its borders in an increasingly complex regional security environment.