Russia test-fires Kalibr and Uran missiles during naval exercises in the Sea of Japan
Russia’s Pacific Fleet held drills in the Sea of Japan, during which the Project 1155M frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov successfully launched precision Kalibr-NK and Uran missiles. The maneuvers were supported by naval aviation and unmanned systems.
“The designated target was successfully destroyed by anti-ship missiles,” Russia’s state news agency TASS reported.
Analysts at Army Recognition said the launches highlight Moscow’s drive to showcase its strike capabilities in a region where the United States, Japan and South Korea regularly conduct joint exercises.
The Russian Navy drills, featuring advanced weaponry, coincided with intensifying debate over a potential review of Japan’s nuclear policy and persistent tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
Analysts also noted the timing followed flights by Russian Tu-95MS strategic bombers over the Sea of Japan a week earlier. Taken together, the actions appear intended as a signal to Japan, South Korea and the U.S. that Russia plans to sustain its military presence in the Asia-Pacific, despite significant forces engaged in the war in Ukraine.
Reuters reports that the debates have been fueled by President Donald Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy toward allies. Former Japanese vice defense minister Rui Matsukawa, during a visit to the United Kingdom, said European states are already recognizing the need to ensure their own security. She said a similar approach should be considered in Japan, which hosts the largest overseas contingents of U.S. forces.
Matsukawa also stressed that “Trump’s unpredictability requires a Plan B,” which could involve greater defense autonomy and a review of Japan’s 1967 “three non-nuclear principles.”
The White House did not officially comment on Matsukawa’s remarks, but a senior Trump administration official told Reuters there are “no changes” in U.S. policy toward Japan and South Korea. The official noted the president and senior national security aides have repeatedly emphasized their commitment to allies in Asia.
Russia, meanwhile, plans to upgrade its nuclear arsenal. According to Rosatom chief executive Alexey Likhachev, the country’s nuclear shield is slated for improvements in the coming years.