Japan has announced that it will deploy surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, its westernmost territory, located roughly 110 kilometres from the coast of Taiwan, by March 2031. The government of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has set this timeline as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s defence in the face of growing tensions in East Asia. This marks the first time Tokyo has put a clear deadline on the plan, which was first unveiled in 2022 as part of broader efforts to fortify its southwestern islands against potential threats.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the missiles, likely medium-range systems capable of detecting and intercepting aircraft and ballistic missiles, would bolster Japan’s air defence network and protect critical air and sea routes. Officials argue that the deployment is defensive in nature and aims to deter any escalation that might spill over into Japanese territory, especially given the island’s proximity to Taiwan. Tokyo has also hosted other defence assets on Yonaguni in recent years, including radar installations and an electronic warfare unit.
Yet this move has significant repercussions. Beijing has repeatedly condemned Japan’s plan as a provocative act that could destabilise the region. Chinese authorities view Taiwan as part of their own territory and interpret Japan’s gesture as interference in what they regard as internal Chinese affairs. Earlier warnings from China’s defence ministry suggested that Tokyo could “pay a heavy price” should it cross what Beijing considers a red line, underscoring the sharp divide in perceptions.
Analysts say the announcement also reflects Japan’s shifting defence posture, where longstanding caution about military matters is giving way to a more assertive outlook amid China’s growing military capabilities and frequent activities near the East China Sea. Many regional observers see this as part of a broader realignment that includes closer security cooperation with the United States and other partners concerned about stability around the Taiwan Strait.
Local residents on Yonaguni have expressed mixed feelings, supporting stronger defences but also fearing that their quiet community could become entangled in a wider conflict. Government officials have pledged ongoing dialogue with islanders to address such concerns as preparations continue.
