The US seeks to expand the production of Patriot missiles in Japan

The United States has expressed its desire for Japan to significantly increase the production of Patriot missiles to cover the shortage of American weapons. This was reported by Nikkei Asia.

According to information obtained from official sources, the US Armed Forces would like Japan to produce more than 100 Patriot missiles as part of the expansion of joint production. This decision is part of a large-scale initiative aimed at increasing production volumes and providing the necessary amount of modern weapons.

It is known that the USA and Japan have already agreed to expand the production of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement missiles, which are among the most advanced in the Patriot missile line. In addition, joint production of an advanced medium-range air-to-air missile (AMRAAM) is planned to begin.

US Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Endowment William LaPlante said the exact number of missiles the US hopes to acquire has not yet been determined, but it far exceeds the number of missiles in previously planned purchases. He emphasized that a significant expansion of the scale of production is expected.

In the coming months, both sides plan to discuss the details of such large-scale production. Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which is the main contractor, already manufactures missiles under license in Japan. It currently builds about 30 missiles a year for Japan's Air Defense Forces.

This partnership between the US and Japan underscores the importance of joint efforts in defense and the production of modern weapons.