▲ The U.S. military's new NMESIS ground-based anti-ship missile system (center), the MADIS integrated air defense system (two vehicles on the left), along with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's medium-range surface-to-air guided missile (second from the right) and Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missile (far right)
The U.S. Marine Corps stationed in Okinawa has officially deployed its new NMESIS (Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System) ground-based anti-ship missile system and the MADIS (Marine Air Defense Integrated System), according to a report by the Nikkei.
According to the report today (June 22), this measure is intended to significantly strengthen anti-ship strike capabilities and air defense capabilities during operations in disputed island regions, with a focus on keeping China in check.
NMESIS is a remotely operated, unmanned ground-based anti-ship missile system, while MADIS is a cutting-edge air defense system designed to detect and shoot down enemy drones or aircraft infiltrating at low altitudes.
Both systems will be operated by the 12th Marine Littoral Regiment (MLR) of the U.S. Marine Corps stationed in Okinawa.
The U.S. Marine Corps has adopted a strategy of dispersing small units of troops to remote islands, such as Japan's Nansei Islands, in the event of a contingency to maintain anti-ship strike capabilities.
The newly introduced equipment is characterized by high mobility, allowing for rapid deployment to island regions via transport aircraft and other means.
The U.S. Marine Corps emphasized, "The ability to rapidly deploy and operate these systems is key to maintaining readiness and effectively responding to a variety of security threats."
These systems will be officially unveiled to the media on June 30 at Camp Hansen in Okinawa Prefecture, which marks the final day of "Resolute Dragon," a joint exercise between the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Marine Corps.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.