Japan Ministry of Defense in the news

1.Announcements
Today, it seems that North Korea launched a ballistic missile in an easterly direction from proximity of Sukchon on the west coast of North Korea approximately 5:54 a.m. The launched missile traveled approximately 800 km and fell into the Sea of Japan., it is estimated that the missile fell into the Sea of Japan approximately 650 km east of the Korean Peninsula. Following the launch, I immediately gave an instruction to keep taking all possible measures for intelligence and surveillance with a further sense of tension. Short while ago, relevant ministers’ meeting was convened. Based on the Prime Minister’s instruction, in order to secure peace and safety of Japan, the MOD continues making the utmost effort to collect and analyze necessary information as well as conduct surveillance in cooperation with the United States, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and other counties.

2.Questions and Answers

Question:
I have a question regarding type of the missile. Some media in the United States and the ROK reported that it was Nodong. What is your view on this?

Minister:
We consider the possibility that the launched missile at this time could be Nodong. In any case, we need to analyze necessary information comprehensively and technically. Thus, I would like to refrain from making conclusive statements.

Question:
Followed by the missile launch last week, it is the second consecutive week of launch. Would you please tell us your take on this?

Minister:
The launch constitutes an element of retaliatory actions against the United Nations (UN) resolution, the U.S.-ROK combined exercise, and others. There is a possibility that North Korea would undertake demonstration against these responses. Therefore, the MOD continues following closely whether or not North Korea takes provocations and other acts.

Question:
It was another provocation while the UN resolution was adopted. What is your view on this?

Minister:
It is an unacceptable act. This issue should be dealt with strictly, and the international community as a whole condemns such missile launch. With this in mind, it should strictly comply with the UN resolutions.

Question:
This time, the missile traveled further than the last time. It constitutes the threat to Japan. If this missile was the Nodong, then it can be said that North Korea launched the missile that covers Japan. Could you share the analysis of that point and your views?

Minister:
This time, it traveled approximately 800 km and fell into the Sea of Japan, which is 650 km east of the Korean Peninsula. While we are analyzing the details right now, we deem that it should be seriously concerned in the point of our national security if this launch leads to the reinforcement of the capability of the ballistic missile that covers Japan’s territory and peripheral waters.

Question:
Does the Government consider taking stronger posture for interception than the one in peacetime?

Minister:
We have conducted surveillance activities and taken thorough posture to respond to the objects. We will continue to deal with it.

Source: Japan Ministry of Defense

By

Robert Williams

Editor in Chief