June 26 (UPI) — North Korea’s midrange missiles that fly in a lofted trajectory may face greater deterrence in Japan, where the United States and Tokyo’s military are jointly deploying more guided missile destroyers.
Japanese newspaper Tokyo Shimbun reported Monday ballistic missile defense, built around the Aegis Combat System, is being “doubled” with the deployment of eight Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
The reinforcements of U.S. warships follow the May 14 launch of a new North Korean midrange ballistic missile. KCNA had stated at the time the missile could carry a heavy nuclear warhead.
After analysts concluded the missile flew in a lofted trajectory, the United States and Japan agreed on a plan to extend deterrence, according to the Japanese news report.
The two countries are expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral security measures in an upcoming “2+2” ministerial meeting of the U.S.-Japan Security Consultative Committee, on July 14.
Ballistic missile defense is at the top of the agenda, a Japanese government official said.
Missiles that fly on a lofted trajectory are difficult to intercept because they climb to the highest point faster and fall more rapidly than missiles on a standard trajectory.
Tokyo recently decided to deploy a land-based component of a missile interceptor system, the Aegis Ashore, to enhance the country’s ability to respond to the launch of North Korean ballistic missiles.
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