Japan fires offensive-type missile outside its territory

Japan launched its Type 88 shore-based anti-ship missile (SSM-1) during the U.S.-Philippine "Balikatan" joint military exercise in the Philippines on May 6, marking the first time Japan has fired an offensive missile outside its territory since World War II.

The U.S.-Philippine "Balikatan" joint military exercise

This is the first time Japan has participated in the exercise as a full member, deploying approximately 1,400 personnel, the JS Ise (DDH-182) helicopter destroyer, the JS Ikazuchi (DD-107) destroyer, Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles, and C-130 transport aircraft.

Japan is steadily breaking through its own limits under its "pacifist constitution." The shift from "exclusive defense" to launching offensive missiles overseas may not be a giant leap, but the direction is unmistakable.

"Balikatan" is no longer just a US-Philippines exercise. For Japan, it's another milestone on its long road to becoming a "normal nation."