The Japanese government is evaluating a potential export of its Type 88 coastal anti-ship missile system to the Philippines as part of growing bilateral defense ties in the Indo-Pacific region. The missile, which entered Japanese service in 1988, is gradually being retired as Tokyo introduces the longer-range Type 12 system. Japan recently eased defense export restrictions for security partners, enabling possible transfers of legacy systems from existing inventories. Mounted on transporter-erector-launchers carrying six missiles each, the sea-skimming Type 88 can strike targets beyond 100 kilometers. If approved, the deal would complement Japan’s accelerated transfer of patrol aircraft and naval vessels to Manila while improving the Philippines’ coastal strike and maritime defense posture.
