Japan: Japan has gone on high alert and deployed missile interceptors in anticipation of potential debris from a North Korean satellite that could potentially hit Japanese soil. The country is taking no chances and is prepared to shoot down any fragments to ensure the safety of its citizens.
Japan’s Defence Minister Mr. Yasukazu Hamada ordered troops to prepare PAC-3 surface-to-air missiles in the southwestern region, including Okinawa and nearby islands. The deployment is in response to a North Korean rocket carrying a satellite that is expected to fly over the area. The instruction aims to enhance Japan’s defensive capabilities and ensure the safety of its citizens.
As part of Japan’s heightened defensive measures, Defence Minister has ordered the deployment of destroyers armed with SM-3 ship-to-air missiles to coastal waters. The move is in response to the North Korean rocket carrying a satellite and aims to increase Japan’s defensive capabilities in the region. A statement from the Ministry confirmed the order for the destroyer deployment.
Hamada has instructed troops to take necessary measures to minimize the impact in case a ballistic missile falls. He emphasized the importance of preparing for any potential harm caused by debris from the North Korean satellite and urged the troops to take all necessary actions to protect the safety and well-being of the Japanese people.
It is important to note that any order to fire missiles in response to the North Korean satellite threat would require the approval of the Japanese Prime Minister. Earlier this week, North Korean leader Mr. Kim Jong Un announced the launch of its first military spy satellite, although the launch date remains unspecified. It is worth noting that North Korea has previously tested ballistic missiles under the guise of satellite launches in 2012 and 2016, with both missiles flying over Japan’s Okinawa region.