Background

Japan is one of the most active cooperating partners with the US on missile defense development. In its strategic doctrine Japan prefers to be self-reliant when it comes to defense and devotes considerable resources to research and development. Japan also has an almost total ban on weapons exports. But cooperation with the US is even more important and essential for developing Japan’s very own capabilities. The Japanese budget for defense is limited development of missile expense comes at the expense of other military programs.

Current Development

Japan currently proceeds with research and development of multi-layered missile defense system. The system is meant to protect the country from North Korean missiles.

Capabilities

Japan currently has 2 radar and 2 optical satellites for space defense.  Japan also has PAC-3 missiles as well as other types of surface-to-air missiles. It currently operates six Aegis ships and extends its cooperation with the US on various fields related to missile defense.