The Japanese government is considering buying US Tomahawk cruise missiles to reinforce its defense capabilities.

It is exploring the possibility of using Tomahawks as deterrence and alternatives until fully deploying "standoff" missiles that can attack targets from beyond enemy range.

The government regards Tomahawks as highly reliable because US forces have already been using them in their operations.

The government is expected to work closely with the ruling parties and the US to arrange any such purchase.

The government aims to eventually produce standoff missiles on a large scale.

These will include the Ground Self-Defense Force's Type 12 surface-to-ship missile, currently being improved for this purpose. Japan is expected to start operating the improved version in fiscal 2026, or later.

Such missiles could be used for counterstrikes. Studies are underway on whether Japan should acquire the capability to conduct such attacks.

The government is also keen to boost the Self-Defense Forces' capability for mass-transport of personnel and supplies to prepare for a possible emergency across the Taiwan Strait.

The government is weighing the option of increasing the number of civilian ships it contracts to support such capability from the current two, to around six.