Part 5/13:
Locals report that on clear days, Taiwan is visible from Yonaguni, underscoring its proximity and strategic vantage point. The expansion of military facilities here underscores Japan’s intent to establish a defensive line stretching toward Taiwan and China.
Other Key Bases in the Southern Islands
Further along the chain, Amami Oshima—another remote island—became home to a new military base in 2019, alongside Camp Setoji. These installations are part of Japan’s broader effort to reinforce its southern defenses, with deployment of surface-to-air missiles designed to enhance deterrence against regional threats.