Japan could soon withdraw PAC-3 missile interceptors

July 30, 2018

UPI:

July 30 (UPI) — Missile interceptors Japan deployed in the Chugoku region in response to growing North Korea provocations in 2017 could soon be removed, according to multiple Japanese press reports.

NHK reported Monday the Patriot Advanced Capability, or PAC-3, interceptor unit deployed to four prefectures in western Japan are to be withdrawn, according to government plans. A Japanese defense ministry source told Kyodo News the PAC-3 units in Chugoku, Shikoku and Hokkaido could soon be removed.

“Owing to the easing of tensions on the Korean Peninsula after last month’s U.S.-North Korea summit, North Korea is unlikely to launch a ballistic missile at present,” the official said. “Even today we are in the middle of considering the withdrawal of PAC-3 troops.”

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