Japan conducts first missile test on its own territory as part of military buildup to deter China

Japan has test-fired a missile on Japanese territory for the first time as the country accelerates its military buildup to deter China. The Type 88 surface-to-ship, short-range missile was tested at a firing range on Hokkaido and targeted a boat about 24 miles offshore. Due to space limitations and safety concerns, Japan conducted past missile tests in the United States, a treaty ally, and Australia, a top Japanese defense partner where vast training grounds are available. Tuesday’s first domestic missile test underscores Japan’s push toward a more self-sufficient military and its acquisition of strike-back capabilities.