The Russian military has deployed coastal defense missile systems near the Kuril Islands, a Pacific chain also claimed by Japan. The move appeared intended to underline Moscow’s firm stance in the dispute.
The Bastion systems were moved to Matua, a deserted volcanic island in the middle of the chain. Japan claims the four southernmost islands.
Russia’s Defense Ministry posted a video showing massive missile carriers moving ashore from amphibious landing vessels and driving along the coast of the volcanic island to take firing positions as part of drills.
The ministry said the deployment involved setting up living quarters for personnel, hangars for the vehicles and other infrastructure.
The Bastion is capable of hitting sea targets at a range of up to 500 kilometers. The deployment followed a series of moves by Russia to beef up its military presence on the Kuril Islands.
Japan asserts territorial rights to the four southernmost islands of the Kuril chain and calls them Northern Territories.
The Soviet Union took the islands in the final days of World War II, and the dispute has kept the countries from signing a peace treaty formally ending their hostilities. — AP
