Last week, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) carried out various tests with its new HVGP hypersonic missile launch system, as part of a demonstration event where several domestically developed systems were presented. Designed for the defense of the Japanese archipelagos, recently released images show the system—presented by the Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA)—operating in various testing grounds characterized by difficult-to-access terrain, as well as aboard a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel and a C-2 transport aircraft of the Air Self-Defense Force used for its transport and relocation.
With development dating back to 2018, justified by a context of growing regional tensions, the HVGP hypersonic missile system was conceived to equip the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force with a long-range surface-to-surface weapon capable of reinforcing its defensive posture on remote islands of the Japanese archipelago, such as the disputed Ryukyu Islands. This had already been confirmed by the Ministry of Defense through its “Defense Reinforcement Program,” published in 2022, which outlined the project’s structure divided into two major phases (initial equipment systems and improved-capability systems), along with the intent to create two specific battalions to operate them.
On this basis, and with U.S. support, the first test of the system took place in 2024 in the state of California. Later, Washington approved in March of the current year a sale of equipment and support valued at USD 200 million for the development of the hypersonic missiles.
Months later, during the Fuji 2025 Exercise, Japan officially unveiled the new HVGP missile launcher, mounted on a TEL-type launcher, which in turn was integrated into an eight-wheel truck providing mobility for the system as a whole. On the other hand, although information on this system remains limited, the first variant, Block I, is expected to be capable of striking targets between 500 and 900 kilometers away, with projected entry into service in 2026. Later versions, Block 2A and 2B, are expected to extend the range to between two thousand and three thousand kilometers, respectively.
“While the HVGP is announced as a system designed for island defense, in practice, as ballistic missiles, they have the capability to strike enemy bases, which could be considered an escalation of the conflict,” stated Takuya Matsuda, assistant professor at Aoyama Gakuin University in Tokyo, to USNI News. He also added, “It is important to analyze how the HVGP could be integrated into Japan’s overall strategy to strengthen deterrence and manage stability in crisis situations.”
At this point, it is relevant to note that in recent years Tokyo has been steadily advancing the incorporation and development of systems that strengthen the defensive capabilities of its islands and archipelagos as a strategy to deter adversaries. In this regard, it is worth mentioning the acquisition of long-range missiles, as well as the planned deployment of Tomahawk cruise missiles, Joint Strike Missiles, and Type 12 anti-ship missiles to enhance anti-ship and counterstrike capabilities against enemy bases in the coming years.
*Image used for illustration purposes.
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