EXPLAINERNews|MilitaryJapan to install missiles near Taiwan: Are China tensions set to spike?Japan plans to deploy missiles near Taiwan, a move analysts say risks deepening regional tensions with China.

Japan to Deploy Missiles on Yonaguni Island

Japan plans to deploy surface-to-air missile systems on Yonaguni island, located approximately 110 km east of Taiwan, by March 2031. These systems are designed to intercept aircraft and ballistic missiles.

According to Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, the deployment is scheduled for fiscal year 2030, contingent on the progress of necessary facility preparations.

Yonaguni is situated at the southwestern edge of Japan's territory and forms part of the Ryukyu island chain. Over recent years, Japan has expanded military infrastructure across these islands, including radar systems and missile batteries.

The decision to augment defenses on Yonaguni is viewed by analysts as a deliberate shift in Japan's defense posture. This move could escalate regional tensions, particularly with China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory.

Japan's defense priorities have increasingly shifted from focusing on threats from Russia in the north to countering Chinese military activities in the East China Sea.

Recent developments have strained relations between Tokyo and Beijing, following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statements regarding potential military involvement in a Taiwan contingency.

China has responded by restricting exports to certain Japanese entities, citing concerns over Japan's "remilitarisation." Economic interdependence between the two countries complicates the situation, as China remains Japan's largest trading partner.

Japan's decision to deploy missiles on Yonaguni reflects its strategic intent to fortify defenses amid growing regional challenges. The implications for Japan-China relations and regional stability warrant close observation.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.