The US guided missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) conducts a tomahawk missile flight test in the western Pacific. Source: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service.

To enhance regional security, the US has greenlighted a $2.35bn (Y348.87bn) deal to supply Japan with the Tomahawk weapon system. 

The sale, approved by the US State Department, underscores the enduring alliance between the two nations and addresses evolving geopolitical challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

The US will provide the Government of Japan with up to 200 Tomahawk Block IV All Up Rounds (AURs) and Block V AURs, along with 14 Tactical Tomahawk weapon control systems. The estimated cost of the acquisition is $2.35bn, as confirmed by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

This agreement aims to fortify Japan’s defence capabilities, aligning with both countries’ foreign policy and national security objectives. The Tomahawk weapon system, manufactured by principal contractor Raytheon in Tucson, Arizona, offers Japan a long-range, conventional surface-to-surface missile with standoff capabilities. 

The system’s capability in neutralising emerging threats positions Japan as a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region.

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In other Japanese missile developments this year, Japan also made a $74.6m investment in Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) Block 2B Tactical Missiles. Japan’s acquisition included 63 RAM Block 2B Tactical Missiles and related equipment.

The proposed sale includes support for the Tomahawk weapon system, encompassing the all up round, tactical Tomahawk weapon control systems, communication equipment, containers, engineering expertise, feasibility studies, hardware, logistical support, maintenance, mission distribution software suite centres, operational flight tests, publications, software, spares and training.

This year, Australia also sought to buy the Tomahawk land attack missiles from the US in a $895m (A$1.37bn) deal. The deal involved 200 Tomahawk RGM-109E Block V all-up rounds and 20 RGM-109E Block IV AURs and support for Australia’s Tomahawk Weapon System. 

As Japan gears up to absorb these military assets into its armed forces, the agreement highlights the enduring partnership between the US and Japan, further solidifying their commitment to shared security goals in the dynamic Indo-Pacific landscape.