The original Type 12 SSM is pictured, on the left, being launched from a transporter-erector-launcher vehicle. Images on the right show the system's sensor and control station. (Japan MOD)
Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) expects the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) to induct the upgraded ship-launched variant of the Type 12 surface-to-surface missile (SSM) by 2026, ATLA told Janes at the DSEI Japan 2023 show in Chiba.
The missile – developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) – is an improved variant of the original Type 12 SSM. While this missile was designed as a land-based anti-ship missile, the upgraded variant can be launched from land, aircraft, and surface combatants.
Features of the upgraded Type 12 SSM include an extended range (from 200 to 1,000 km), an increased missile length, a modified shape, an up-to-date command (UTDC) link, and increased engine endurance to support longer operations.
The UTDC will enable the missile to receive in-flight target updates. The upgraded variant does not share the body shape of the original Type 12 SSM. The upgraded missile is designed with a stealthy body shape to reduce radar cross-section (RCS).
The upgraded Type 12 missile is controlled by two moving rectangular wings located at its mid-body in conjunction with two smaller moving rectangular tailfins.
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