Tokyo is acquiring long-range missiles in an attempt to reach parity with Russia and China

Japanese authorities have entered into a contract with Raytheon for the supply of 120 long-range AIM-120D air combat missiles capable of hitting maneuvering targets at a distance of 150-160 km at medium and high altitudes.

In addition, thanks to its dual-mode solid propellant engine, the AIM-120D can maintain impressive cruising speed and kinetic energy. This allows the missile to maneuver with overloads of up to 20-30 G and destroy targets that maneuver at overloads of up to 15 G.



Missiles are aimed at a target via secure radio channels of the Link-16 network using third-party radar systems. The AIM-120D receives this ability due to active RGSN.

At the same time, Russia has ultra-long-range R-37M URVBs, the effective interception range of which is 230-250 km. The PLA is armed with PL-21D airborne missile launchers with integral ramjet engines - their range reaches 200 km. PL-17 missiles are capable of hitting enemy targets at a distance of up to 370 km.

Thus, Tokyo is unlikely to be able to achieve parity with the armed forces of the Russian Federation and China. With a high degree of probability, in a hypothetical conflict situation, Japanese forces will be defeated.