Three questions Japan must answer as it seeks missile strike options

Cancellation of $4.2bn Aegis Ashore system raises fundamental defense challenges

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20200812 Sasebo JMSDF.JPG

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's base in Sasebo, pictured in April 2018: missing from the discussion is how strong Japan's passive measures are. © Reuters

Jeffrey W. Hornung is a political scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation headquartered in California.

Following its decision to cancel the Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense system, Japan is currently debating future deterrence capabilities. This includes possible alternatives to Aegis Ashore, as well as offensive strike capabilities.

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