Japan to deploy missiles on island near Taiwan by 2031

The remote Yonaguni island lies on the frontlines of self-governing Taiwan's growing tensions with China.

Japan plans to deploy upgraded air defense missiles on its westernmost island, Yonaguni, within sight of Taiwan, by 2031, underscoring Tokyo’s growing concern over regional security and tensions with China.

Japan plans to station surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, its westernmost territory near Taiwan, by March 2031, a move likely to escalate tensions with China.

Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced plans to deploy an air defense missile unit on Yonaguni Island in fiscal 2030, enhancing the nation's defense capabilities near Taiwan.

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed Japan's plan to station medium-range surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island by fiscal 2030, aiming to bolster regional security.

Japan's government plans to deploy surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, its remote westernmost territory near Taiwan, by March 2031, marking the first time Japan has specified the timing of the deployment.

Japan plans to deploy surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, its westernmost territory nearly 110 km from Taiwan, by March 2031, a move likely to inflame tensions with China.

Japan's plan to deploy surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island by March 2031 is expected to heighten tensions with China, analysts suggest.