The government wants to research long-range precision missile technology, according to a draft outline of the midterm defense buildup plan for fiscal 2005-2009.

Because missiles of this kind can be used to attack overseas targets, including ballistic missile sites, the controversial proposal may be seen as a prelude to a shift in Japan's defense-oriented policy.

The document, presented by the government Friday to a meeting of the Liberal Democratic Party's National Defense Division, is expected to be finalized and approved by the Cabinet after the government concludes the revised National Defense Program Outline, possibly on Tuesday.

The outline serves as a guideline with regard to Japan's defense capabilities; the midterm plan outlines specific ways to build up these capabilities in the coming five years.

The item pertaining to long-range precision missile technology is included in a section on the development of science and technology. Also featured are plans to develop an electronic interception device for installation on aircraft.

In light of its defense-only policy, Japan has chosen to follow a self-imposed ban on offensive weapons.

But in late September, a Defense Agency panel compiled a report stating that Japan should consider possessing these weapons, though it noted that it is "inappropriate" for Japan to do so immediately.

The report, which has yet to be made public, proposes that Japan install surface-to-surface missiles with a range of several hundred kilometers to bolster its ability to attack ground targets in the event that Japan is threatened with an attack.

The recommendation is believed to reflect strong concerns over the missile threat posed by North Korea.

The government holds the view that it is constitutionally permissible for Japan to attack enemy bases, though it has opted against possessing weapons for this purpose.

The government's basic policy is to rely on the United States to attack enemies on its behalf under the bilateral security arrangement.