Japan holds missile shield drill in Tokyo's center

Japan tested a ballistic missile defense unit in the center of Tokyo on Tuesday, stepping up preparations to secure the capital from what it sees as an increased threat from neighboring North Korea.

The exercise at the Defense Ministry headquarters was designed to test the troops' ability to use the equipment, a ministry spokeswoman said on condition of anonymity, citing department policy.

The soldiers did not test-fire actual missiles, she said. She said no further details could be released because of national security concerns.

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