| Japan’s new Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno © News 1 |
In response to reports that China test-fired a “hypersonic missile” in August, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said that it would enhance its detection, tracking and intercept capabilities and strengthen its comprehensive missile air defense capabilities.
Earlier, the Financial Times (FT) reported that China was found to have tested a “hypersonic missile” capable of carrying nuclear weapons. The missile missed its target, but it was reported that the technology was so advanced that it surprised US intelligence officials.
Hypersonic weapons, which are five times faster than the speed of sound, cannot be intercepted by existing missile defense (MD) systems, so they are called ‘game changers’ that can change the game of war.
“I am aware of the reports,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a regular press conference on the same day. “It appears that China is rapidly developing hypersonic nuclear weapons in order to acquire a strike capability capable of breaking through missile defenses.”
He said, “China is rapidly and extensively strengthening the mass of its military force, including nuclear and missile power, by continuously increasing its defense spending to a high level without transparency,” he said. “It is a strong concern for the security of the region and the international community, including (Japan),” he said.
He continued, “Generally speaking, some new threats are pointed out that it is difficult to deal with with conventional equipment. We will continue to strengthen our missile defense capabilities,” he added.
allday33@news1.kr
