Japanese missile demonstrates acrobatic capabilities en route to target

Japan has released a video showcasing its new anti-ship missile performing evasive maneuvers, a tactic designed to challenge enemy defense systems during a simulated attack.

Last week, Japan's Ministry of Defense, through its Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA), released a video of a test for its new long-range anti-ship missile, known as the "island defense missile" or "New SSM".

The video depicts the missile launching with a solid-fuel booster, then engaging its main engine to propel it towards a target. During its final trajectory stage, the missile performs continuous evasive maneuvers, a tactic intended to challenge naval guns and close-in weapon systems on opposing warships.

The video, however, does not show the target being struck.

The New SSM missile test launch, as seen in the video posted on 14/1. *Video: ATLA*

Developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), the New SSM operates at subsonic speeds and is powered by one XKJ301-1 turbofan engine.

While Japan has not disclosed the New SSM's exact operational range, it confirms the missile surpasses the Type-12 anti-ship missile in reach. The original Type-12 boasts a maximum range of 200 km, with an upgraded variant reportedly capable of striking targets 400 km away. Tokyo is also developing a new version with a projected range of 900-1,000 km.

The New SSM is designed for deployment from various platforms, including ground-based launchers, warships, F-2 light fighter jets, or P-1 patrol aircraft. Its design incorporates radar stealth capabilities, featuring an S-shaped air intake to obscure the turbine blades.

The missile employs an inertial guidance system paired with GPS satellite navigation to reach its designated area. It then activates an infrared imaging seeker and radar for high-precision target lock. KHI states the New SSM possesses significant maneuverability during its mid-course stage, mitigating the risk of interception by anti-aircraft missiles.

Illustration of the New SSM missile's final-stage maneuverability. *Graphic: Japan Ministry of Defense*

"The multi-channel seeker significantly boosts the probability of a direct hit, lessening the risk of missile neutralization by jamming or other countermeasures," noted Joseph Trevithick, a commentator for the US military news site War Zone. "This approach also enhances the missile's effectiveness in complex coastal environments."

Driven by regional security concerns, Japan accelerated the New SSM project's development in 2023. The missile is slated for mass production and deployment by 2027.

*Pham Giang (Source: War Zone)*

By VnExpress: https://vnexpress.net/ten-lua-nhat-pho-dien-kha-nang-nhao-lon-khi-lao-den-muc-tieu-5007583.html