US Approves $340m HVGP Capability Sale to Japan: Enhancing Defence Capabilities
The US Department of State has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Japan valued at approximately $340m, aimed at enhancing the country’s indigenous upgraded Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectiles (HVGP) capability.
What is the HVGP Capability?
Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectiles are ground-launched missiles capable of travelling at supersonic speeds from high altitudes while following unpredictable paths, making them challenging to intercept.
The Japanese Government is developing these systems as part of its standoff capabilities with the intention to counter enemy units approaching remote islands beyond their operational range, according to a report in the Japan Times.
What does the Proposed Sale Include?
The agreement includes equipment and various services such as test preparation, support during testing, and logistical transportation. Japan will receive a range of support systems from the US Government including range and utility support, surveillance, safety reviews for flight termination systems, and radio frequency assignments.
- Test preparation and support
- Logistical transportation
- Range and utility support
- Surveillance
- Safety reviews for flight termination systems
- Radio frequency assignments
Why is the Proposed Sale Important?
The proposed sale will offer defence for remote islands, thereby improving Japan’s capability to meet “current and future threats,” according to the US Department of State.
“Japan will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces,” it said.
What are the Broader Implications?
This transaction forms part of broader efforts by both countries to reinforce security cooperation in response to evolving threats in the region.
In March of the previous year, the Department of State authorised a similar FMS to Japan involving HVGP Capability Support and related equipment, which was then estimated at $200m.
Data and analytics firm GlobalData stated last year that Japan’s move to incorporate hypersonic missiles into its defence plans is intended to uphold military balance and respond to increasing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
The firm’s report, “The Global Missiles & Missile Defense Systems Market Forecast 2025-2035,” also projected that Japan will allocate approximately $14.3bn for missile procurement over the decade starting in 2025.
Conclusion
The proposed FMS is expected to strengthen Japan’s capability to meet current and future threats. The sale includes a range of support systems and services, and is part of broader efforts by both countries to reinforce security cooperation in response to evolving threats in the region.
Japan will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces, and the proposed sale is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s defence capabilities.
