Japan Eyes Type 88 Anti-Ship Missile Transfer to Philippines to Boost South China Sea Defense: Japan is considering the transfer of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Type 88 anti-ship missiles to the Philippines, a move that could significantly strengthen Manila’s ability to threaten hostile naval forces across key maritime approaches in the South China Sea. The potential deal, discussed after Philippine interest emerged earlier this month and confirmed by Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on May 15, reflects Tokyo’s growing willingness to support regional deterrence through direct defense cooperation. The truck-mounted Type 88 gives coastal defense units the ability to strike surface targets at ranges exceeding 100 kilometers while remaining mobile and difficult to target. If approved, the missile would expand the Philippines’ anti-access capabilities and deepen Japan-Philippines military coordination as both countries respond to rising security pressure in the Indo-Pacific. Read more...A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Type 88 surface-to-ship missile launcher equipped with six launch canisters and designed for coastal anti-ship operations. (Picture source: Japan MoD) #Japan #Philippines #Type88Missile #SouthChinaSea #MilitaryCooperation