Japan Expands ASM-3ER to Air-to-Air Role, Targets 2030 Service

Japan’s 2027 budget request confirms mass production of the ASM-3ER long-range anti-ship missile and its new air-to-air capability via software updates, with production slated for FY2027 and operational entry around FY2030. Carried by the F-2, the missile could engage high-value airborne assets such as AWACS and refueling tankers at long range, enabled by an IRR propulsion system and satellite-linked target updates. While expanding Japan’s long-range strike options, the program remains costly and will compete for stocks with its primary anti-ship mission, alongside other upgrades like the Type 12 system.