Policy change: Japan no longer restrains arms exports to other countries
The Cabinet of Ministers of Japan has eased the rules for exporting military weapons, including new-generation fighters, to other countries.
In Japan, after the Second World War, the constitution enshrined “pacifist principles” that for a long time prohibited the country from selling weapons. However, they have recently made changes due to the security situation in the world.
According to Cabinet Secretary General Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan will continue to adhere to its “basic philosophy as a peaceful nation.” He also explained that all sales decisions would go through a “rigorous approval process.”
The easing of export rules also includes Japanese military equipment and technology, not just weapons from partners.
The Land of the Rising Sun is currently developing a new fighter jet under the GCAP program with Italy and the United Kingdom to modernize its air force, which consists of F-2 and Eurofighter Typhoon fighters.
The new aircraft is scheduled to enter the sky by 2035 and will be multifunctional, for example, it will be able to carry the promising Japanese-British JNAAM missiles. The project involves several companies from partner countries, including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, BAE Systems, and Rolls-Royce.
