Scientists in China may have found a way to drastically improve the performance of thermal batteries,which would dramatically improve their military applications. Thermal batteries can function effectively in extreme temperatures that traditional batteries cannot,meant to withstand heat up to 660 to 1,020 degrees Fahrenheit. By utilizing molten salt electrolytes, thermal batteries also offer a higher power output that makes them the battery of choice for military equipment, aerospace systems, and emergency power supplies. However, thermal batteries have been struggling to meet the voltage and output demands of newer technologies due to these batteries’ cathode performance.
Professor Wang Song and Zhu Yongping from the Institute of Process Engineering of the Chinese Academy of sciences have been working on improving thermal batteries’ cathode performance. Currently, the materials in thermal batteries dissolve during operati
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Recent reports indicate advancements in Japan’s missile capabilities, specifically concerning the Type 12 missile system. This analysis verifies the claims made in the source material as of January 31, 2026, and provides additional context.
Japan’s Type 12 Missile System
Table of Contents
The Type 12 surface-to-ship missile is a domestically developed, mobile missile system designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and fielded by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
The missile is intended to counter surface targets, including naval vessels, and is deployed to defend Japan’s remote islands.It entered service in 2020, with initial deployments focused on the Nansei Islands chain.
Example: In March 2023, the JGSDF conducted a live-fire exercise with the Type 12 missile, demonstrating its operational readiness. US-Japan Conduct Joint Missile Defense Exercise
Range and Capabilities
The Type 12 missile has a reported range of approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles), even though recent modifications have extended this range to over 300 kilometers (186 miles). Japan to Extend Range of Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile to Over 300km.
The claim of a 600+ mile range in the original source appears to be inaccurate. While Japan is actively developing longer-range missiles, including land-attack cruise missiles, these are separate systems. The Type 12 is primarily an anti-ship missile.
Evidence: In December 2023, Japan’s Ministry of Defense announced plans to deploy longer-range standoff missiles, but these are not the Type 12. Japan plans to deploy longer-range missiles amid China threat
Evasion Capabilities
The Type 12 missile incorporates features designed to enhance its survivability against enemy defenses,including a low-altitude flight profile and electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM).Type 12 Surface-to-Ship Missile, Japan.
These features aim to make the missile more difficult to detect and intercept by radar and other defensive systems.However, details regarding the specific evasion techniques employed are classified.
Example: The missile’s terrain-following capability allows it to fly close to the surface, reducing its radar cross-section and making it harder to track.Type 12 Surface-to-Ship missile
Recent Developments (as of January 31,2026)
As of January 31,2026,there have been no confirmed reports of the Type 12 missile achieving a range exceeding 300 kilometers. Japan continues to invest in missile defense capabilities and is actively pursuing the development of longer-range standoff missiles to address evolving regional security challenges. US, Japan Reaffirm Commitment to Defense Cooperation
Further upgrades to the Type 12 are expected, focusing on improved range, accuracy, and electronic warfare resistance. These upgrades are likely to be incremental, rather than a radical redesign of the system.
