Japan seeks to test long-range missiles at Indian ranges

Japan is in discussions with India to access the country's expansive missile test ranges for conducting trials of its latest military hardware, according to sources familiar with the defense cooperation initiative. The move reflects Japan's growing need for dedicated testing facilities as it develops next-generation defense systems.

Tokyo's request encompasses trials of several weapons systems, including the Type-25 anti-ship missile and compact attack drones designed for tactical operations. Japan's geographical constraints—limited by its island geography and population density—have made it increasingly difficult to conduct comprehensive testing of long-range weaponry within its own territory.

India's missile ranges, among the largest in Asia, offer the expansive test grounds required for validating the performance and accuracy of these advanced systems. The potential arrangement would mark a significant expansion of the existing defense collaboration between the two nations, which has grown substantially in recent years.

The proposal underscores deepening military ties between India and Japan as both nations navigate regional security challenges. Such testing arrangements are not uncommon in international defense partnerships, with countries often leveraging allied nations' facilities to advance weapons development programs while managing domestic constraints.

Officials from both nations are expected to finalize details regarding the scope, timeline, and logistics of the testing arrangements in coming months, sources indicated.