Russia Fires Supersonic Missiles in Sea of Japan
On October 15th, 2020 the Russian navy conducted exercises in the Sea of Japan, firing two supersonic missiles off the coast of Vladivostok, Russia. This move was seen as a show of strength, demonstrating the naval capabilities of the Russian military. It also marks a shift in the nation’s naval strategy, with a focus on developing supersonic missile technology. As tensions between Russia and the world at large continue to rise, the launch of the missiles serves to further complicate the region’s already precarious geopolitical situation.
The Sea of Japan
The Sea of Japan, which lies between Russia, China and Japan, is an important body of water for the countries bordering it. It is home to abundant fisheries, and is a major shipping route for international trade. It is also a potential flashpoint for conflict, due to the presence of competing claims on certain territories within and around the sea, making it an area of heightened political sensitivity.
What Is a Supersonic Missile?
A supersonic missile is a type of missile that travels faster than the speed of sound, typically around Mach 3 (three times the speed of sound). As such, they are far more difficult to detect and intercept than slower-moving missiles. Their speed and large warhead make them a formidable threat, and they are often used as a show of military strength or as a deterrent to aggression.
Russia’s Missile Launch
The missile launch by Russia serves as a reminder of the country’s ability to project its maritime power in the region. It is believed that the missiles were launched from a Russian cruiser and sailed approximately 100 miles (160km) to their targets. The targets were reportedly dummy ships, and it is unknown what impact, if any, the missiles had.
While Russia has attempted to downplay the severity of the incident, the launch appears to have been deliberately provocative. This does not come as a surprise, as Russia has previously used its military prowess to assert its authority in the region. This type of demonstration is also consistent with Russia’s stated goal of increasing its strength in the Sea of Japan and in the wider Asia Pacific region.
Reaction to Russia’s Activity
The missile launch has caused a great deal of concern among the countries of the Asia Pacific. Japan’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador to Japan in response to the launch, while China has called on all parties to exercise restraint and maintain regional stability. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has condemned the launch, saying that it “poses serious risks to the region and only further threatens regional stability”.
In the wake of the launch, the US has increased its military presence in the region. This includes increased naval patrols and the deployment of anti-ship missile defense systems. The US has also called for more sanctions on Russia, as well as for other nations to apply greater diplomatic pressure on the country.
Is War Possible?
Although the launch appears to have been a show of strength, the chances of war between Russia and any of the other countries in the region are slim. As a nuclear-armed state, Russia is keenly aware of the devastating consequences such a conflict would bring. Most governments in the region believe that the current crisis can be resolved through diplomacy and engagement.
The firing of two supersonic missiles in the Sea of Japan has sent a signal to the world that Russia is willing and able to project its military power into the Asia Pacific region. The launch has caused great concern among the countries of the region, particularly those most at risk of conflict. It is clear that the situation must be monitored carefully, and that diplomacy and dialogue must be explored to manage the situation. In the meantime, it appears that the region will remain unstable, with the potential for further aggressions by Russia.
