NHK has learned that Japan's Defense Ministry is likely to scrap its plan to prepare a training area for the Ground Self-Defense Force in the southern prefecture of Okinawa. The ministry is believed to have taken local opposition into consideration.

The ministry intended to create a training area at the site of a former golf course in Uruma City. But many local residents oppose the plan as there are residential areas near the site.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has said he would rethink how to use the land.

Sources say the ministry has given up on developing a training site there as it would be difficult to gain local understanding. They also say the ministry may decide not to purchase the land.

The ministry is expected to inform the city of its thinking as early as Thursday.

The ministry will likely work to find an alternative site, saying a training range is necessary in Okinawa even if it officially cancels the plan to build one.