Observers said that Japan could well become one of the first navies to operate the advanced weapon as part of its air defence capabilities, after the Japanese defence ministry released images of the gun this week, without elaborating.
The latest images show a number of modifications to the prototype’s first experimental firing in October 2023. The next generation weapon was also sighted earlier this month on board the JS Asuka in Yokosuka port before setting off for the sea trial on April 10.
“Given China’s enormous inventory of ballistic and growing number of hypersonic missiles that can target Japan, Beijing cannot really be surprised at Japan’s determination to build such defensive systems,” he said.
However, former PLA instructor Song Zhongping said compared with conventional artillery, the electromagnetic gun “uses a new principle to attack targets, and its attack power and accuracy are relatively high”.
“If Japan develops this type of weapon and deploys it, it will mean that Japan is beginning to pursue an offensive strategy, and the threat posed to other countries and the region will be rather serious,” Song said.
