Japan's Defense Ministry plans to develop a high-powered laser capable of shooting down missiles to boost its defenses against North Korea, a news report said yesterday.
The ministry will ask for funds next fiscal year to develop a ground-based laser capable of destroying ballistic missiles in midair, according to the Mainichi Shimbun.
The ministry is also considering an anti-missile laser that can be mounted on aircraft, the report said, citing unidentified officials.
Unlike the Patriot missile defense system, which Japan began deploying in March, lasers would shoot down missiles shortly after they are launched, the Mainichi said. Patriot missiles can only shoot down missiles at later stages of their trajectory.
The US is already developing similar laser technology, according to the report. Defense officials in Tokyo were not immediately available for comment.
The report comes amid heightened concern in Japan over North Korea's weapons programs. Last year, the North test-fired seven missiles into waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan, and detonated its first nuclear bomb.
Since last month, Japan's Defense Ministry has provided US forces with intelligence from 28 radar sites across Japan and from its fighter squadrons and other air units, according to a separate report carried by the Kyodo News agency.
In return, Washington will share intelligence on North Korea's ballistic missiles gathered from advanced spy satellites and patrol aircraft, the report cited unnamed Japanese defense officials as saying.
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