Key information
- Delays in Tomahawk missile deliveries are hampering Japan’s plan to strengthen its long-range strike capabilities.
- The United States is prioritizing replenishing its own Tomahawk stocks, depleted due to the ongoing conflict with Iran.
- Japan emphasizes the importance of diversifying its defense arsenal by developing national missile systems.
Japan’s plans to acquire hundreds of Tomahawk missiles from the United States are facing significant delays due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. The war depleted US missile stocks, forcing Washington to prioritize supplying its own military operations over fulfilling international orders.
Impact on missile deliveries
Tokyo had initially concluded a $2.35 billion (2 billion euros) contract for around 400 Tomahawks by March 2028, aiming to strengthen its long-range strike capabilities in the face of potential threats from China and North Korea. However, the United States informed Japan that deliveries would be disrupted as the conflict in Iran mobilized huge quantities of these crucial weapons.
Before the war, the United States had approximately 4,000 Tomahawks, including older models and anti-shipping variants. While RTX Corp., the manufacturer, has produced about 100 new missiles in 2025 and upgraded 240 older models to the latest Block V standard, the conflict has already used up the equivalent of more than two years of combined production.
Consequences for the allies
This situation highlights the potential consequences for US allies as the conflict diverts resources from other strategic priorities. While Japan received its first delivery of Tomahawks in March, ongoing discussions between Japanese and U.S. defense officials indicate it is uncertain whether the remaining order can be fulfilled on time.
Japan’s decision to invest in Tomahawk missiles was part of a broader change in strategy, carried out at the end of 2022, aimed at developing response capabilities. These long-range cruise missiles were seen as a relatively quick solution, while Japan was simultaneously developing its own domestic missile systems.
Efforts de diversification
The delay in Tomahawk deliveries underscores the importance of Japan’s efforts to diversify its arsenal. The deployment of locally produced Type 12 missiles and ultra-high velocity glide projectiles demonstrates Japan’s commitment to strengthening its own defense capabilities.
At the same time, the United States faces the challenge of replenishing its depleted Tomahawk stock. Efforts are underway to increase production to 1,000 missiles per year, but this process will take several years. (fc)
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