Tokyo is considering exporting a missile system to the Philippines as it seeks to ease its weapons-export restrictions, Japanese media reported – a move likely to draw criticism from Beijing.
The missile system, dubbed Type 03 Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile, is of the same type that Tokyo plans to deploy on Yonaguni, an island only 110 kilometres (68 miles) away from Taiwan. Beijing has blasted the deployment on Yonaguni as “extremely dangerous”.
Kyodo News reported on Sunday that Japan has held informal talks with the Philippines about the possible export of the Japanese-developed missile system, citing sources familiar with the matter.
A substantive study of the export is expected to begin once Tokyo formally decides to scrap a rule limiting defence-equipment exports – a change that could come next year, according to the report.
The truck-mobile air defence system has a range of 50km. With active radar homing, it can shoot down aircraft and cruise missiles. The Kyodo News report said the Philippine side has expressed its interest in acquiring the system for its military.
Manila is also locked in tensions with Beijing over the disputed South China Sea, where Chinese air force activities are frequent. In addition, the Philippines is part of the strategic “first island chain” in the Pacific, with its nearest island about 140km from Taiwan.