China and Japan ignite Asian hypersonic arms race

China’s cutting-edge missile defense radar and Japan’s hypersonic missile test may spark a new East Asian arms race, potentially escalating regional tensions.

The South China Morning Post reports that Chinese scientists from Tsinghua University have made an innovative radar that can track 10 missiles at Mach 20 with a mere 28-centimeter error in distance estimation and 99.7% accuracy in speed measurement.

SCMP says that this advancement, achieved through the integration of lasers, allows for light-speed information transmission and complex microwave signal processing. It notes that the radar’s capabilities, verified through ground-based simulations, include a 600-kilometer detection range and the potential to equip air-defense missiles or planes.

The source says that China’s new radar’s use of laser technology and a novel algorithm also eliminates the issue of phantom images, ensuring the radar’s reliability against false targets.

Further, Naval News reports this month that Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency has released footage of the test launch of the Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile test launch, marking a significant advancement in the country’s defense capabilities.

Naval News mentions that the HVGP, a hypersonic weapon designed for island defense, has an estimated range of 900 kilometers and will be deployed by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force in 2026.

The publication says that amid rising military threats from China and North Korea, Japan has accelerated the HVGP’s production, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries handling manufacturing. It notes that the test has showcased the “Early Deployment Version (Block 1)” of the projectile, with plans to develop longer-range versions by 2030.

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