In a recent exhibition at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's Kengun Base, local mayors and officials were shown long-range missile equipment slated for deployment, following complaints about a lack of prior communication regarding the arrival of the equipment.
The Kyushu Defense Bureau held an exhibition on the long-range missile systems that will be deployed to the Kengun Base in Kumamoto City at the end of this month. The event featured various missile-related vehicles such as launchers and ammunition transporters, and was attended by local mayors and council members who received explanations from military personnel about the equipment. These measures follow concerns expressed by local officials regarding the lack of prior notification when the equipment was brought in earlier this month.
One particular missile showcased was the 'Improved Type of 12th Missile System', which offers capabilities for striking enemy bases. The exhibition was designed to inform local stakeholders about the new military capabilities being installed. Despite the initial dissatisfaction from local leaders, including Kumamoto City Mayor Kazushi Onishi, who expressed his disappointment over the lack of communication previously, he acknowledged that the explanations provided at the exhibition helped foster a better understanding of the situation.
Furthermore, there are calls from Mayor Onishi and Kumamoto Prefectural Governor Takashi Kimura for a more comprehensive, public explanation that includes the wider community, rather than just selected officials. The Kyushu Defense Bureau Director Kazuki Ito responded that the Ministry of Defense is taking these concerns seriously and is considering how to address them with the public, indicating an ongoing dialogue about military transparency in the local area.
