The Asahi Shimbun

An enhanced ground-based interceptor missile has been installed on the grounds of the Defense Ministry in Tokyo following the recent decision not to deploy the Aegis Ashore ballistic missile system.

A PAC-3, or Patriot Advanced Capability, interceptor missile had already been set up on ministry grounds in Tokyo’s Ichigaya district.

However, the improved PAC-3 MSE version, installed on the morning of July 10, doubles the defense capability because it can intercept incoming ballistic missiles at higher altitudes.

The PAC-3 missiles, operated by the Air Self-Defense Force, are designed to intercept ballistic missiles as they approach the ground after descending from space.

There are 34 PAC-3 missile units at 17 facilities around Japan, but most are still of the original version.

The Defense Ministry has been upgrading the missile and four enhanced versions had been installed by June at ASDF bases in Narashino, Chiba Prefecture; Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture; as well as at the Ashiya and Tsuiki air bases, both in Fukuoka Prefecture.

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