The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) today denounced the growing arms buildup in Japan in support of the United States' hegemonic plans in the region.

Pyongyang.- A statement from the General Directorate of Armaments of the Ministry of National Defense noted that one of the most recent examples of such a stance is the agreement between Tokyo and Washington to jointly produce the AIM-120 air-to-air missile.

This decision is highly dangerous considering the tense geopolitical and security environment in Northeast Asia, it noted.

The statement revealed that far from the intended defensive nature of this “jointly deployed weapon,” its true purpose is to use it as a means of attack and aggression, given its ability to evade the anti-aircraft systems of countries considered enemies and deliver a deep-seated strike.

It denounced the US as encouraging militarism in Japan and the two nations' plan to establish a joint operations command as part of their efforts to “keep at bay” nations they considered hostile and to fuel the war effort in Asia.

The General Directorate of Armaments of the Ministry of National Defense warned that, in this scenario, the DPRK will continue to strengthen its military deterrent system, confident that any attempt at aggression will be met with a heavy price. (PL)