As part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 25, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) conducted live-fire tests of its new Type 12 anti-ship missile system to demonstrate its capabilities, targeting an unmanned floating maritime target located several nautical miles away. According to an official statement from the Australian government, which co-hosts the exercise alongside Papua New Guinea, this marks the second time Japanese troops have carried out a launch of this kind from Australian territory.
The test took place at the Beecroft Weapons Range, located in Jervis Bay on Australia’s eastern coast. The activity involved a coastal defense battery mounted on a JGSDF truck, from which three Type 12 missiles were launched. Official sources reported that all missiles hit the target with precision, following different flight paths. This success was partially attributed to support provided by Australian troops, who assisted with missile guidance—marking the first time such coordination was carried out jointly.
Colonel Youhei Ito, commander of the Japanese unit involved in the launches, commented: “Adding complexity to our training series with partner nations like Australia has been truly valuable for the JGSDF elements participating in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Our unit joined Talisman Sabre with two main goals: first, our regiment conducted its first-ever live-fire drill, and we were able to use the exercise to enhance our knowledge and experience. Second, by completing our mission in cooperation with many people from the ADF—especially the Royal Australian Navy and HMAS Albatross units—we were able to learn a lot.”
It’s worth noting that Tokyo deployed a contingent of approximately 120 JGSDF troops to participate in Talisman Sabre 25. This is the eleventh iteration of the exercise, which involves 19 nations and more than 40,000 personnel, and is scheduled to conclude on August 4. The stated objective of the drill is to enhance interoperability among participating nations for high-level multidomain operations in the region—an aim that, undoubtedly, is seen by many as a signal toward China.
Colonel Ito added: “Looking at the current global situation, we can see that the security environment is complex and serious. It is not possible for us, or for any country, to establish peace and stability unilaterally. In line with that, exercises like Talisman Sabre will grow in importance as we continue to work with allies and partners to fulfill our mission.”
*Image credits: Australian Department of Defence
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