How Good Are Japan’s Type 11 Surface-To-Air Missiles?

Replacing the Type 81 SAM

Unknown to many, the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) is actually quite well-equipped when it comes to air defense, featuring a wide arsenal of anti-aircraft weapons.

Among them, the Type 81 Surface-To-Air Missile (SAM) has stood out as an excellent means of providing short-range cover.

However, as missile technology has evolved, along with the rapid emergence of drones, Japan has developed the Type 11 SAM to address these new threats.

• General Overview 

Developed by Toshiba and procured since 2011, the Type 11 SAM aims to intercept new cruise missiles as well as high-speed, small targets – something the Type 81 is considered to struggle with.

The Type 11 SAM not only uses better missile technology, but also integrates with the new air defense network and command systems through data link.

The system comes with a four-tube launcher mounted on a truck, switching from the Type 81’s container type to a more maintenance-friendly canister version.

On the other hand, the automatic reloader seen in the Type 81 has been omitted as a result.

Air Force Version And New Model?

While the missile can autonomously track and engage its target, the Type 11 missile uses active guidance instead of the Type 81’s infrared/image guidance method, thereby achieving better accuracy.

The overall system comprises of three vehicles, two with launchers and one for fire control, and can be loaded on transport planes or the CH-47J helicopters.

Such mobility makes it ideal for front-line air cover during island defense, where it is expected to protect vital airports, ports, and other critical infrastructure from enemy attacks.

Type 11 SAM being fired (photo: JGSDF)

While it is mainly used by the Army (JGSDF),  the Type 11 SAM is actually adopted by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) as well. The ones operated by the air force is used for base air defense, and is instead referred as the “Base Defense Surface-to-Air Missile.”

The specs are the basically the same, but the Air Force version is mounted on a Toyota Mega Cruiser rather than a truck, ensuring better mobility for rapid response.

Despite being operated by both the Army and Air Force, its expensive cost has resulted in a sluggish procurement, just like many other Japanese military equipment.

Current estimates suggest around 20 sets for JGSDF and about 10 sets for JASDF, which far from replacing the Type 81 SAMs.

Meanwhile, development of a newer model called the “New Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile” is already underway, aiming to further enhance its ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets and intercept smaller, low-flying threats.