Japan to deploy missile unit on Yonaguni Island in FY 2030
The Nation Thailand7 hrs
Japan to Deploy Missiles on Island Near Taiwan by 2031
Is Japan's missile deployment a necessary defense against China or a dangerous return to militarism?
Above: A general view of Yonaguni Island, Japan, on Aug. 18, 2022. Image credit: Philip Fong/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
Deploying surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island by 2031 is a necessary defensive measure as China intensifies attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas. With Beijing refusing to rule out taking Taiwan by force and engaging in coercive behavior, strengthening air defenses on islands near potential flashpoints protects Japanese territory and regional stability.
Pro-China narrative
Japan's accelerated missile deployment marks a dangerous breakaway from its pacifist constitution and exposes military expansion ambitions that risk repeating World War II mistakes. The upgraded Type 12 missiles covering parts of the Chinese mainland will only become a security burden for Japan itself — increasing the risk of becoming a target while failing to earn trust from Asian neighbors.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0