Tokyo: Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has announced that the government is contemplating the deployment of an air defense missile unit on Yonaguni Island, located in the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa, by fiscal year 2030.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference, Koizumi indicated that the timeline might be adjusted based on the progress in the construction of necessary facilities. The Defense Ministry's plan involves stationing a Self-Defense Forces unit equipped with medium-range surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island. This move aims to enhance Japan's capability to intercept aircraft and ballistic missiles at this strategic location, which is approximately 110 kilometers from Taiwan and serves as a critical point in Japan's Nansei southwestern islands.

Koizumi explained that necessary work, including basic studies related to facility development for the unit's deployment, is currently underway. A briefing session for the island's residents is scheduled for March 2, where detailed explanations will be provided to address any concerns.