Japan deploys 'Patriot Defence System' to strike down North Korean missiles

Tokyo/ Pyongyang – Japan has deployed the ‘Patriot Defence System’ after North Korea’s missile test. The Japanese media released the news that Japanese Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada gave an order in this regard. A few days ago, North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un announced that he would launch a spy satellite soon. But earlier, it was revealed that ballistic missiles were tested instead of launching satellites.

Just ten days ago, North Korea tested a long-range ballistic missile. This missile had reached a distance of about one thousand kilometres. As the missile was directed towards Japan, the Japanese government ordered the army to prepare by evacuating the people of Hokkaido to a safe place. Japan also criticized North Korea’s test as provocative and increasing regional tensions. Against this background, the orders the Defence Minister of Japan gave before the new test of North Korea have drawn attention.

For the past few months, North Korea has continuously conducted missile tests— ranging from intercontinental ballistic missiles to short-range ballistic missiles. North Korea has claimed that new technology is being used during these missile tests. North Korea also said it used solid fuel for the missile test held on April 13. These missiles can easily carry explosives. Experts and analysts have warned that the progress made by North Korea in its missile program, which is under Western sanctions, is shocking.

Furthermore, Japan seemed alert after North Korea’s dictator Kim Jong-un announced a satellite test. North Korea seems to have launched a military spy satellite for the first time. Earlier in 2012 and 2016, North Korea had tested ballistic missiles by claiming to be launching satellites. Japan has ordered its defence forces to be on alert as part of preparedness in case that happens this time.

Accordingly, Japan’s defence forces have deployed the Patriot Defense System. At the same time, the destroyers deployed in the maritime area have also been instructed to keep ‘SM-3 interceptors’ ready. Besides, Japan’s Defense Minister Hamada explained that if North Korea tests dangerous ballistic missiles or other components, action must be ordered against it. Therefore, instructions have been given to the defence forces to be ready.

Following North Korea’s missile test on April 13, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida ordered to prepare to respond to North Korean actions and prepare for any contingencies. Before that, it was reported that the Japanese government had started preparing to build ‘bomb shelters’ by highlighting the danger of missile attacks by North Korea and China.

हिंदी मराठी