Japan Deploys Missiles Around Taiwan; China Issues Strong Warning

Nov 26, 2025
International

Photo: A Soldier Holding a Taiwanese Flag During a Military Drill in Hsinchu County, Northern Taiwan, 2021 (Collected)

International Desk, PNN

Tensions in East Asia have escalated after Japan announced new missile deployments near Taiwan. In response, China warned that any foreign intervention on Taiwan’s side would be met with force.

At a press conference in Beijing, Peng Qinggen, spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, said, “China has the determination, willpower, and capability to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any foreign attempt to intervene in Taiwan will be strictly countered.”

Japan plans to install medium-range missile systems on Yonaguni Island, just 110 km from Taiwan’s eastern coast, where a military base has existed since 2016. Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the missiles are defensive, intended to intercept drones or aircraft entering Japanese airspace.

China’s Foreign Ministry called Japan’s move “deliberate provocation,” saying it will harm regional stability. Taiwan welcomed Japan’s decision. Taiwanese Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Ou stated, “Japan’s military enhancement supports Taiwan’s security. Japan is not hostile toward Taiwan.”

Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te announced an additional $40 billion defense budget over 2026–2033 to counter growing threats from China. Defense Minister Wellington Koo said the budget will fund precision strike missiles and joint development with the U.S.