TOKYO - Japanese Defense Minister Naoki Tanaka on Tuesday ordered missile-defense preparations for the planned rocket launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) next month.  

Tanaka gave the order at a defense ministry meeting. Japan is readying its missile defense systems to intercept the rocket if it appears to pass through Japan's skies or fall on its land.

The defense minister is expected to issue an order of intercepting the rocket on March 30, after coordinating with local governments,local media reported.

The ministry plans to deploy ground- based Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptors or PAC 3 in locations including Okinawa island and the headquarters of the ministry in Tokyo, and Aegis- equipped destroyers at seas off Okinawa as well as the Sea of Japan, according to media reports.

The DPRK announced earlier it would launch an "earth observation" satellite, or the Kwangmyongsong-3, using a long- range rocket to mark the 100th birthday of late leader Kim Il-sung. The satellite is scheduled to be launched from a station in North Phyongan province between April 12 and 16.

Japan's order came at a time when leaders from over 50 nations and international organizations are gathering in Seoul for a Nuclear Security Summit.

Similar preparation order was given before the DPRK's rocket launch in 2009.