Japan has for the first time shot down a ballistic missile, testing a defence system aimed at warding off potential missile threats from its neighbours.
A Japanese warship stationed off Hawaii launched a US-developed Standard-3 interceptor missile to destroy a mock target fired from onshore.
The test was carried out in partnership with the US Missile Defence Agency.
Experts say the test will strengthen the US-Japan security alliance but it could also escalate regional tensions.
Japan and the US have worked closely on missile defence since North Korea flew a missile over northern Japan in 1998.
The US has carried out such tests in the past but this is the first time a test has been carried out by one of of its allies.
Japanese government spokesman Nobutaka Machimura described the test as very significant for Japan's national security.
"The Defence Ministry and the government have been putting efforts into the development of ballistic missile defence, and we will continue to install the needed equipment and conduct exercises," he said
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/7149197.stm
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