Article

Japan's railgun program has reached a significant milestone with successful shipboard testing aboard the JS Asuka, marking the first railgun firing at sea. The railgun can launch projectiles at 2,000-2,300 m/s, targeting fast-moving threats like hypersonic missiles.

Following the first firing in 2023, the program plans to deploy small-caliber prototypes by 2027 and medium-caliber systems by 2028. Collaborations with France and Germany have facilitated advancements in design and technical challenges. Japan's focus on compact, efficient systems differentiates it from other nations' railgun efforts, positioning it as a leader in electromagnetic weaponry.