The launcher truck with two canisters for Japan’s new hypersonic glide weapon HGVP, which has been test-fired, was seen on a Japanese Telegram channel.

The image of the truck was posted on Japanese Telegram channel “軍事日本 “. Army Recognition reported that the public firing demonstration of the HGVP hypersonic glide weapon will take place during the Fuji Comprehensive Firepower Exercise.

The truck is carrying two canisters with a large diameter to accommodate the all-up rounds.

Japan’s HGVP as a Conventional Deterrent

Japan plans to deploy HGVP in several versions as a conventional deterrent against Chinese military action, particularly by the PLAN. The current version of HGVP can reach a range of 900 km, which is within the same regime as SRBMs, but ATLA is planning for a 3000 km variant that can cover more strategic targets.

The missile was tested in Japan and the U.S., the latter to keep away from observation by Chinese sensors.

Hypersonic Glide Weapons

Hypersonic glide weapons boost a payload carrier optimised for unpowered flight at extreme altitudes and hypersonic speeds. Compared to ballistic missiles, these weapons possess a higher freedom of manoeuvre, giving them better potential at evading enemy defence.

Considering the range of current examples, they can be considered an emerging alternative to ballistic missiles in short to medium ranges.

The U.S., China, Japan, and Russia are known to be actively working on hypersonic glide weapons for use from different platforms.

Author: Kaan Azman

Editor: Özgür Ekşi