PAC-3 antimissile systems to be equipped with better radar to counter new weapons

A PAC-3 surface-to-air antimissile system is deployed on the grounds of the Defense Ministry in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo, in October. (Credit: The Yomiuri Shimbun)

Discussions have begun on equipping the Air Self-Defense Force's PAC-3 surface-to-air antimissile systems with radar better able to counter hypersonic weapons, several government officials said.

The measure will be included in the defense program -- currently known as the Medium Term Defense Program -- set to be approved by the Cabinet on Friday at the earliest.