Russia has been training its military officers for possible war with Japan and South Korea, according to leaked documents reviewed by the Financial Times.
The files, dated from 2013 and 2014, list 160 potential targets, including nuclear power plants, transportation links, and military sites.
Civilian and Military Targets
The documents reveal plans to strike critical sites like Japan’s Tokai nuclear power plant and the Kanmon tunnel, which connects the islands of Honshu and Kyushu.
Military targets include radar systems, airbases, and naval facilities in both Japan and South Korea.
The target lists were reportedly used for officer training exercises, preparing for a potential conflict in the region. Russia appears to have put careful thought into its plans, even estimating the forces needed to attack heavily protected sites like South Korea’s command bunkers.
Russia's Eastern Strategy
The documents suggest a growing focus by Russia on the Asia-Pacific region.
William Alberque, a former NATO official, said the plans show how Russia sees its European and Asian military operations as connected. Recent reports of North Korean soldiers fighting in Ukraine further highlight Russia's alliances in the region.
The files indicate that Russia could use Kh-101 cruise missiles to hit its targets.
These missiles, which can carry non-nuclear warheads, would be aimed at disrupting critical infrastructure and military operations in Japan and South Korea.
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, the United States has increased its military presence in Japan and South Korea. Both countries are also part of international efforts to limit Russia’s military capabilities through export controls.
In Europe, Russia’s actions have also raised concerns.
Recently, Germany boosted security at NATO’s AWACS base after reports of possible Russian drone attacks.
