TOKYO - Local government officials in Kumamoto, southwestern Japan, voiced protests on Monday after the Ministry of Defense transported a missile launcher and other equipment to a Ground Self-Defense Force camp in the prefecture without prior explanation, local media reported.

According to Kyodo News, the ministry delivered a launcher for the upgraded Type 12 surface-to-ship missile to Camp Kengun in Kumamoto city early Monday.

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The missile has an extended range of about 1,000 km and is capable of striking ships at sea, as well as other targets. The system is set to be formally deployed by the end of March, Kyodo News reported.

Takashi Kimura, governor of Kumamoto prefecture, told reporters Monday that the defense ministry had declined to provide details when inquired about the deployment plan. The official called the response "deeply regrettable."

Kazufumi Onishi, mayor of Kumamoto city, also told the media that the Ministry of Defense had given no prior explanation regarding the delivery of the launcher, saying the city's trust in the ministry had "declined significantly."

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As news of the move spread, anxiety among local residents has been growing, the mayor added, urging the ministry to show due respect to local governments and properly address residents' concerns.

According to earlier reports by Japanese media, the deployment plan has long drawn criticism, with worries that the deployment sites could become targets.