The US State Department has authorized a $340 million foreign military sale package to support Japan’s enhanced Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile (HVGP) program, encompassing various equipment and service provisions.
Tokyo’s request covers a wide range of support activities, including test preparation, range monitoring and safety, radio frequency coordination, and bilateral meetings in both the United States and Japan, in addition to comprehensive logistics and program support.
This decision builds on a previously approved $200 million deal in March 2025.
The notification stated that the sale will strengthen Japan’s ability to counter present and future threats, particularly by improving defenses of its remote island territories, while noting that integration into Japan’s military structure is expected to proceed smoothly.
HVGP for Strategic Defense
The HVGP system is a ground-based weapon combining ballistic missile technology with a hypersonic glide vehicle, intended for use by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces in both defensive and counterstrike roles.
After launch, the system uses a rocket booster to ascend to high altitude, where the glide vehicle separates and travels at hypersonic speeds toward its designated target.
The Block 1 variant is believed to have a strike range of approximately 500 to 900 kilometers (310–559 miles), with extended-range versions currently in development.
Development efforts began in fiscal 2018, targeting completion by 2025, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries responsible for production.
Amid increasing regional tensions, Japan accelerated initial production in 2023 despite the system still undergoing development.
The country aims to field the current HVGP variant by March 31, alongside upgraded Type 12 long-range anti-ship missile systems.
