Japan to Test Hypersonic Missiles in Australia Over 10 Years as Allies Expand Laser Project
Updated
Updated · 台北時報 · Aug 18
Japan to Test Hypersonic Missiles in Australia Over 10 Years as Allies Expand Laser Project
3 articles · Updated · 台北時報 · Aug 18
Summary
Canberra said Japan would gain an enhanced arrangement to use Australian missile ranges over the next decade, opening the way for tests of hypersonic and other standoff missiles on Australian soil.
Shinjiro Koizumi called Australian launches of Japanese hypersonic missiles a “groundbreaking development,” with both sides saying they would accelerate talks to make the plan happen.
Richard Marles and Koizumi also unveiled Project Boobook, a joint defense effort to develop laser systems for land combat and littoral platforms to detect potential threats.
The move extends a broader security buildup driven by concern over China and pressure on US allies to spend more, after Australia last year agreed to a A$10 billion stealth-frigate deal with Japan.