A Japanese naval vessel shot down a ballistic missile Monday over the Pacific Ocean, the first US ally to successfully carry out such a test. Japan plans to install the US-built interceptor system on four of its warships, in addition to land-based missile systems to defend itself from possible attack from neighboring North Korea.
Japan has stepped up military cooperation with the US since North Korea test-fired a long-range missile over Japan in 1998. Monday's test is a reminder of tensions in Northeast Asia, including the flash point of Taiwan, over which China claims sovereignty and which it has targeted with hundreds of missiles. Analysts say Japan's interceptor missiles could be used to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack.
-----------------------
On Monday, the Taiwan leader stated he would not declare independence before leaving office. While the Kuomintang (KMT) had agreed to buy four Patriot III anti-missile defense units.
No comments:
Post a Comment