The government has decided to develop a "stand-off missile" that can attack from outside the enemy's range, but opposition parties and others have raised concerns that it may lead to the possession of so-called "enemy base attack capability". Therefore, the government will be required to give sufficient explanation.
On the 18th, the government decided a new policy on missile prevention, and while not directly touching the possession of the ability to prevent ballistic missiles even within the opponent's territory, long-range cruises that can attack from outside the enemy's range Incorporated the development of a missile "stand-off missile".
Regarding this, the government emphasized that it was not aimed at possessing the so-called "enemy base attack capability", and Minister of Defense Kishi also said, "A'stand-off missile'that can attack the opponent while ensuring the safety of SDF personnel." It is necessary to distinguish between having a missile and how to prevent missiles. "
However, if it becomes possible to launch from escort ships and fighters, it is possible to further extend the range, and there is concern that it may lead to having "enemy base attack capability" without showing a clear policy. The opposition party has criticized it as "deviation from the idea of exclusive defense".
In order to dispel these concerns, the government will be required to provide sufficient explanation, such as clarifying the purpose and use of the "standoff missile" development.