Japan studies possible export of Type 88 missiles to Philippines; expert says limited capability but warns malicious intent behind lethal arms transfers
2026-05-16 10:20:42 source：globaltimes
May 15, 2026
Japan's Defense Ministry has begun studying the possible export of the Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles after the Philippines expressed interest in acquiring the system earlier this month, according to sources cited by NHK on Friday. The missile system was recently fired during the 2026 US-Philippines Balikatan joint military drills.
A Chinese military affairs expert told the Global Times on Friday that the aging offensive weapon poses limited military threats, but warning that for a country that was once an aggressor and defeated power in WWII, such actions are clearly offensive in nature and highly dangerous.
The Type 88 surface-to-ship missile is a land-based anti-ship weapon with a range of more than 100 kilometers and is currently operated by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF), NHK reported.
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