The US military is set to provide Japan's Self-Defense Forces with training on Tomahawk cruise missiles, starting late next month. This is in response to Japan's planned purchase of the missiles from the United States.

Japan plans to acquire up to 400 Tomahawks as part of its efforts to fundamentally strengthen its defense capabilities. The country aims to use the missiles to help boost its counterstrike capabilities against enemy missile bases and other targets.

Japan's Defense Minister Kihara Minoru and US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel met at the defense ministry in Tokyo on Wednesday.

Kihara said Japan hopes to work with the US to steadily advance the fundamental reinforcement of defense capabilities.

Emanuel said training is crucial in utilizing Tomahawks for building counterattack capabilities.