By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Contributor
The Army Pacific commander, Gen. Charles Flynn, announced during his South Korea visit that the United States is set to station ground-based launch systems in the Indo-Pacific region. These systems, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, are part of the U.S. Army’s newly developed “long-range precision fires”. The SM-6 interceptor and the maritime-strike Tomahawk were specifically mentioned as missiles compatible with this new launch system.
For decades, the U.S.-Japan alliance has been a cornerstone of regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Recently, this partnership has transformed into a truly global one, reaching new heights in defense and security cooperation. As the POTUS stated:
“Over the last three years, the partnership between Japan and the United States has been transformed into a truly global partnership. The relationship with Japan is powerful proof than in investing in our alliance and raising our collective ambitions, we yield remarkable results.”
In a recent transcript of Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, Pentagon Press Secretary of the Department of Defense Press Secretary, added, saying;
“Our defense and security ties with Japan form the core of our alliance and are the cornerstone of regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.”
One aspect of this cooperation that has garnered significant attention is the potential deployment of U.S. ground-based long-range strike capabilities on Japanese soil.
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This alliance between the United States and Japan has raised questions about the potential deployment of U.S. ground-based long-range strike capabilities on Japanese soil. If it occurs, this deployment would significantly enhance Japan’s deterrence capabilities against China. Ground-based long-range strike capabilities, such as the Tomahawk cruise missile, offer several technological advantages that could deter potential adversaries. These capabilities can be equipped with stealth technology, which allows them to evade detection by enemy radars. Additionally, integrating advanced sensors and precision targeting systems enables these missiles to strike targets accurately, reducing the risk of collateral damage.
The deployment of U.S. ground-based long-range strike capabilities in Japan could be particularly effective in operational scenarios where rapid response is crucial. For example, in the event of a sudden attack by China, these capabilities could be used to launch a swift and devastating counterstrike, potentially deterring further aggression. Moreover, these capabilities on Japanese soil could serve as a deterrent, as China might be less likely to initiate hostilities if it knows the U.S. can strike back with long-range precision.
The U.S. has been developing new missile systems since the end of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which restricted the deployment of ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 km, according to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The report also notes that Japan is embarking on greater acquisition of relevant technologies from the U.S. under the framework of the U.S.-Japan alliance, as well as developing indigenous long-range-strike and hypersonic capabilities.
According to a recent Pentagon assessment, deploying these capabilities in Japan would significantly enhance the U.S.-Japan alliance’s ability to deter and respond to potential threats. However, this move would also likely provoke a response from China, potentially escalating regional tensions.
Looking forward, the deployment of U.S. ground-based long-range strike capabilities in Japan could play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic landscape of the Indo-Pacific. As emerging threats and technological advancements evolve, the U.S.-Japan alliance must adapt and innovate to maintain its role as a regional peace and security cornerstone.
However, the potential deployment also raises concerns about the risks of escalation and the need for careful alliance management. In the future, emerging threats and technological advancements may influence the effectiveness of ground-based long-range strike capabilities. As such, it is essential for the U.S. and its allies to continuously assess and adapt their strategies to maintain a credible deterrence posture in the region.
OLAWALE ABAIRE is a researcher, writer and analyst who has written many published nonfiction books
