Japan and the US to develop joint hypersonic missile defence system
Japan and the US are set to sign an agreement to develop a joint hypersonic missile defense system, Japanese media reported on Thursday. The agreement is expected to be signed during the meeting between US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at Camp David, Maryland, on Friday.

The development of a joint hypersonic missile defense system is a response to the growing threat posed by hypersonic missiles. Hypersonic missiles are capable of flying at speeds of Mach 5 or greater, making them difficult to intercept.
China, Russia, and North Korea are all developing hypersonic missiles. In 2021, China became the first country to successfully test a hypersonic glide vehicle that was able to maneuver in mid-flight.
The development of a joint hypersonic missile defense system is a significant step in the US-Japan alliance. It demonstrates the two countries' commitment to working together to address the growing threat posed by hypersonic missiles.