The 7th Surface-to-Ship Missile Regiment is a missile unit of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.[1] The unit, established on 21 March 2024, is garrisoned in Uruma and it is tasked with coastal defence duties.[2]
In September 2021, the Japanese Ministry of Defence deployed to Okinawa Island Type 12 anti-ship missile batteries, along with around 180 troops, in order to bolster the defence of the southwestern islands.[1]
On 21 March 2024,[3] after slightly increasing the troops, the deployment was establishd as an independent unit.[4]
The 7th Surface-to-Ship Missile Regiment is to play a central role in Japan's defence of the Okinawa Prefecture. The Regiment’s primary task is to perform surveillance of foreign military vessels in the waters between Okinawa and Miyako-jima.[3] The unit is tasked with blocking a possible invasion of the remote islands from the sea and confronting invading forces.[1]
Japan
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force
