Japan enhances preparedness for North Korea's 'satellite' launch

The Japanese government is taking all possible measures to prepare for the launch of what North Korea says is an artificial satellite.

North Korea notified the Japan Coast Guard on Tuesday that the satellite will be launched sometime between August 24 and 31.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said later on Tuesday that even if the objective is to propel a satellite, a launch using ballistic missile technology violates the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

He also said such an act could put the people of Japan in grave danger.

The Defense Ministry believes the projectile is likely to be launched at the beginning of Pyongyang's specified timeframe and pass areas near the Sakishima Islands in Japan's southwestern prefecture of Okinawa.

The ministry has ordered the Self-Defense Forces to destroy any incoming ballistic missiles that could fall within Japanese territory.

Maritime Self-Defense Force Aegis destroyers are deployed in the East China Sea and land-based PAC-3 interceptor systems are on standby in Okinawa.

The Japanese government has also stepped up readiness of its nationwide J-Alert emergency warning system.

The system is designed to automatically activate municipal public radio systems to issue evacuation information.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230823_09/