“We are tracking any missile-related signs and maintain a high state of readiness”, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
Advertisement
Officials did not specify the missile type but reports say it is likely to be a intermediate-range Musudan missile, similar to one the North unsuccessfully tried to test launch three times in April. It said that preparations are under way in the eastern part of the country.
Since North Korea conducted a fourth nuclear test in January, followed by launching a satellite and test-launching missiles, tensions have been increased in the region. The Seoul government immediately called it a proposal without sincerity and a propaganda ploy.
The Japanese Ministry for Defence, like its counterpart in South Korea, has declined to comment on the missile threat. The official declined to be identified as he is not authorised to speak to the media, the agency said.
The United Nations Security Council has banned North Korea from developing nuclear and ballistic missile technology. But it seems determined to press ahead with its weapons programs, despite the sanctions and the disapproval of its sole main ally, China.
The Maritime Self-Defense Force has advanced Aegis-equipped vessels in the Sea of Japan that are able to track multiple targets and are armed with SM-3 missiles created to destroy incoming warheads in space before they re-enter the atmosphere and fall to their targets.
Advertisement
Under the order, the Self-Defence Forces will deploy Aegis destroyers equipped with missile interceptors offshore and PAC-3 surface-to-air anti-ballistic missiles, NHK said.
