North Korea's Nuclear Test Will Result In A Missile Defense Build-up By Japan And South Korea

Japan should strengthen the ability of its military to deter and counter missile attacks, including the possible acquisition of the ability to hit enemy bases, the Defence Ministry said, but officials denied this would be used for pre-emptive strikes.(Reuters)

Reuters: North Korea test could put missile defense back in frame despite Chinese disquiet


North Korea's claim to have tested a miniaturized hydrogen bomb, which would represent a big advance in its strike capability, could lead to renewed calls for countries in the region to enhance their missile defenses, changes that China opposes.

Analysts and military attaches say Beijing will be watching closely for signs that the United States and Japan are exploring improved ballistic missile defense, or whether Washington leans more heavily on South Korea to adopt its advanced high-altitude missile system, technology Seoul has so far turned down.

There is considerable doubt over the veracity of Pyongyang's assertion that Wednesday's explosion was a full-fledged test of a hydrogen device, but it could mark an advance in the secretive state's nuclear technology.

WNU Editor: I concur with this Reuter's analysis. North Korea's nuclear test will result in an arms build-up by South Korea and Japan, and the deployment of even more missile interceptors. This is not what China wants .... but now finds itself in a position where it cannot even voice its objections because of what North Korea has done.