Japan fires Type 88 missiles in Philippines during Balikatan 2026 drill

The Japan Ground Self‑Defense Force deployed its land‑based Type 88 surface‑to‑ship missile system for the first time in the Philippines, launching two missiles that sank a decommissioned Philippine Navy vessel during the maritime‑strike phase of Exercise Balikatan 2026. The firing took place at the Paoay Sand Dunes in Ilocos Norte and was witnessed by Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi.

The event marks Japan’s transition from observer to active participant in the annual U.S.–Philippines‑Japan exercise, following the Philippines‑Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement and the signing of a cross‑servicing pact. officials highlighted the drill’s role in improving interoperability, maritime domain awareness and joint response capabilities amid rising tensions in the East and South China Seas.