Kawasaki Heavy Industries will carry out a test launch of its new anti-ship missile, known as the “New SSM” (Surface-to-Surface Missile), in the 2027 fiscal year. This was confirmed on October 17, 2024, at the International Aerospace Exhibition in Tokyo. The missile is a long-range cruise weapon designed to strike targets from beyond enemy defenses. It uses a compact, fuel-efficient turbofan engine and is equipped with wings for aircraft-like horizontal flight. Because of its range, shape, and features, it has been nicknamed the “Japanese Tomahawk,” drawing comparisons to the U.S. Tomahawk missile.
