Japan and the United States have successfully tested the Aegis ballistic missile defense system on Tuesday.

Japan’s picked a new $1.2 billion radar for its two ground-based Aegis ballistic missile defense sites.

The price for two Aegis Ashore batteries could exceed $5.4 billion -- over twice the amount initially cited by the Japanese government.

The announcement contrasts with long-term moves to increase Japan's missile defense capabilities.

Tokyo has selected Lockheed Martin’s most advanced long-range radar system for its two Aegis Ashore batteries.

Move part of Japanese fortification of first island chain against Chinese fleets.

Amid a growing Chinese naval presence, Japan is considering additional steps to protect Miyako Strait.

The Japanese military is purportedly also mulling the purchase of F-35Bs, according to sources.

Abe makes a fresh attempt to reform Japan's pacifist constitution.

Japan needs its own Goldwater-Nichols, forcing jointness upon the Self Defense Forces.

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force deployed its first F-35A fighter jet this month.

The U.S. State Department approved a possible sale of U.S.-made supersonic ballistic missile interceptors to Japan.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s Cabinet approved the procurement of two Aegis Ashore batteries.

The Japanese ministry of defense publicly confirmed that it will seek funds for new missiles in next year’s budget.

Japan will purportedly allocate funds to study the possibility of arming fighter jets with long-range air-to-ground missiles.

With the North Korean threat reaching unparalleled levels, Tokyo is facing difficult choices about self-defense.