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Japan deploys long-range missiles in major US joint military exercise

Japan has fielded its Type 25 long-range missiles outside their home base for the first time during a large-scale joint military drill with the United States. The Keen Sword exercise involves tens of thousands of personnel from both nations and represents a significant display of regional military capability.

LSN Malaysia · 19 October 2026

Japan deploys long-range missiles in major US joint military exercise

Japan's Self-Defense Forces have deployed long-range Type 25 missiles beyond their base perimeter during the Keen Sword joint military exercise with the United States, marking the first operational deployment of the system outside its home facility.

The bilateral drill encompasses 45,000 personnel from Japan's Self-Defense Forces and approximately 12,000 US military troops, making it one of the region's largest coordinated defense exercises. The exercise demonstrates deepening military coordination between Tokyo and Washington amid growing regional security concerns.

The Type 25 missile system represents Japan's domestic long-range strike capability. Its deployment during the Keen Sword exercise signals both countries' commitment to joint defense readiness and coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.

The exercise underscores Japan's expanding military capabilities and its strategic partnership with the United States. Such joint operations have become increasingly routine as both nations work to maintain security and stability in the region amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.