TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Japan will deploy a missile unit on Yonaguni Island (與那國島), just 110 kilometers from Taiwan, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi (小泉進次郎) confirmed Sunday (Nov. 23). Koizumi inspected the island to address the escalating security environment and bolster deterrence against regional threats. The defense minister countered claims the deployment might heighten tensions in the region.
Koizumi said the missile unit will enhance deterrence and reduce Japan's risk of armed attack. Bloomberg reported this marks Koizumi's first Yonaguni Island visit since assuming office last month. The defense minister confirmed the ministry will continue the Type 03 Chu-SAM (Choo-SAM) deployment plan initiated by former Defense Minister Gen Nakatani (中谷元).
Koizumi told Yonaguni's mayor that Japan faces the most severe and complicated security landscape. The defense minister stressed the need to strengthen Japan's Self-Defense Forces and deepen cooperation with U.S. forces. Yonaguni Island currently hosts a radar station and an electronic warfare unit stationed in 2024, with recent U.S. military exercises testing its capability as a forward operating base.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's (高市早苗) recent remarks about a Taiwan contingency provoked a strong diplomatic response from Beijing. The comments led to economic retaliation and Chinese media questioning Japan's sovereignty over the Ryukyu Islands. Bloomberg analysis highlighted Japan's growing concern over potential involvement in a Taiwan Strait conflict due to China's increasing military activities. Koizumi inspected bases on Ishigaki (石垣島) and Miyako Islands (宮古島) before visiting Yonaguni. ◼
