Japan explores air-to-air capabilities for ASM-3 Kai missile

Japan’s Ministry of Defense has indicated that the ASM-3 Kai, a domestically developed supersonic cruise missile, may possess air-to-air capabilities. In its fiscal year 2027 defense budget request, the ministry described the weapon as an “air-to-surface/anti-air missile,” a shift from its previous public association solely with anti-ship missions.

The ASM-3 family, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, was originally intended to arm the Mitsubishi F-2 fighter. The upgraded ASM-3 Kai variant aims to significantly extend the missile's range. While the ASM-3A variant was designed for a 400-kilometer range with a planned service entry in 2025, the new Kai version is expected to reach a range of approximately 600 kilometers.

This development is part of a broader ¥8.89 trillion ($56 billion) budget request aimed at expanding Japan's standoff strike, air defense, and uncrewed systems capabilities. The increased range and potential air-to-air role are expected to enhance the operational reach and defensive capacity of Japan's air assets, particularly within the Pacific region.