Object identified as North Korea missile part found near Japan

TOKYO, June 17 (UPI) -- An object that is possibly a fragment of a North Korean missile propellant was found near the coast of Japan.

The piece was located offshore, near Tottori Prefecture on the southwestern coast facing the Korean peninsula, South Korean news network YTN reported Friday.

The fragment, discovered Thursday, had a width of six feet, measured four feet vertically and weighed about 220 pounds, according to the report.

Japanese authorities said it's highly likely the object is of North Korean origin.

Tokyo is increasingly wary of Pyongyang's activities since the country fired a ballistic missile to launch a satellite into space.

In response to provocations, the defense ministry is aiming to expand the range and capability of PAC-3 systems, NHK reported Wednesday.

The PAC-3 is a surface-to-air guided missile interceptor. Tokyo is planning to operate upgraded systems after five years, according to the report.

In conjunction with the plans, the defense ministry is also expected to upgrade radar devices and launchers.

The ability to track fighter jets or cruise missiles could get a boost from the upgrade, NHK stated.

Japan, along with the United States and South Korea, has repeatedly called for North Korea denuclearization.

As part of unilateral sanctions, Tokyo has restricted money transfers to and from North Korea and is denying entry to North Korean nationals.