Updated on Saturday, July 08, 2006, 00:00 IST

Tokyo, July 08: Japan has decided to accelerate its missile defence plans after test launches by its reclusive neighbour North Korea raised regional security concerns, a news report said today.

Three surface-to-air missiles used to intercept incoming missiles will now be deployed in 2007, a year earlier than planned, the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper said without citing sources.

The PAC-3S (patriot advanced capability 3s) were initially due to be deployed in metropolitan areas by the end of March 2008, followed by deployment in rural areas.

But officials decided it was necessary to set up the interceptor systems far sooner after North Korean missile tests on Wednesday raised security concerns among the Japanese public.

North Korea test-fired without warning seven missiles, including for the first time a long-range Taepodong-2 which quickly crashed into the sea of Japan (East Sea), but which has a range capable of reaching Tokyo.

Bureau Report