Japan Proposes Joint Production of SM-6 Missiles With United States

Japan has proposed joint production of Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) missiles with the United States.

Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani announced this during a meeting with Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin on March 30, as reported by Naval News.

These missiles will be used both on existing Japanese fleet destroyers and new ships under the ASEV project, which are planned to be commissioned in 2027–2028.

According to the MoD official, the U.S. side responded, by saying “We would like to continue to discuss the joint production of the missiles that are mutually beneficial for both Japan and the United States, including SM-6, as well as AMRAAM, and PAC3 that we have discussed so far, even at an administrative level. We understand the importance, so we would like to deepen the discussion at the administrative level in the future.”

In addition, Gen Nakatani announced Japan’s efforts to accelerate the production of medium-range air-to-air missiles, AIM-120 AMRAAM, as agreed upon in July of last year.

The missiles will be fully produced by the Japanese company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which already has many years of experience in developing and manufacturing aviation weapons. This will enable Japan to reduce its dependence on American components.

Meanwhile, Japan and the United States also agreed to explore the possibilities of mutually beneficial joint production of missiles for the Patriot air defense system.

SM-6 for Japan

In late January 2025, the U.S. State Department announced the approval of a potential sale of Standard Missile 6 surface-to-air missiles to Japan.

This involves 150 Block 1 missiles with a total value of $900 million, as well as the corresponding additional equipment.

This cost also includes Mk 21 Mod 3 transport-launch containers, in which the missiles will be delivered and which will be used with the MK41 vertical launch systems, as well as components, support equipment, integration work, and testing.

The missile purchase is taking place amid the strengthening of Japan’s missile defense and the enhancement of the surface component of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces.