Japan and the US Sign a Deal for New Missile Defence System

On 15th May, 2024, Japan and the US inked a pact to develop a new missile defence system to counter hypersonic threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.

Key Points

Project Origin and Timeline: Japan and the US agreed to develop a Glide Sphere Interceptor, planned for deployment by the mid-2030s.
Allocation of Responsibility: The agreement determines roles and decision-making processes, marking a significant step in the project.
Challenges of Hypersonic Weapons: Hypersonic weapons, with speeds exceeding Mach 5, pose a challenge due to their speed and manoeuvrability.
Recent Developments: Japan's defence ministry highlights the recent advancements in hypersonic weapons in the region.
Japanese Contribution: Japan is tasked with developing a component of the interceptor's tip and its rocket motors.
Financial Allocation: Japan has allocated 75.7 billion yen for the initial development and testing of the interceptor.
Deployment Plan: The interceptors will be deployed on Aegis-class destroyers, similar to previous missile defence systems co-developed by Japan and the US.