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The Japanese government is moving forward with deploying surface-to-air missiles on an island near Taiwan.

Getting into it: The move was confirmed by Shinjiro Koizumi, Japan’s defense minister, who announced that the missiles will be stationed on Yonaguni by 2030 and will be operational by 2031. The deployment will consist of Type-03 (Chu-SAM) medium-range surface-to-air missile systems designed to intercept aircraft and ballistic missiles within an approximate 30 mile range using a 360-degree radar tracking capability. Yonaguni sits just 68 miles from Taiwan, placing the system close to a potential flashpoint in any cross-strait conflict. Koizumi said infrastructure upgrades are underway to prepare facilities for the unit, though progress could impact the timeline.

In addition to the missile battery, Japan plans to install an electronic warfare unit in fiscal 2026 to disrupt enemy radar and communications.

The confirmation comes amid heightened tensions between Japan and China following remarks by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who suggested Japan could activate its Self-Defense Forces if a Chinese attack on Taiwan posed an existential threat. In response, China imposed export restrictions on dozens of Japanese firms, limited certain rare earth exports, and flew military aircraft near Japan’s territory, prompting Japan to scramble fighter jets.

China has accused Japan of “creating regional tension and provoking military confrontation,” while warning against what it characterizes as a revival of militarism.