Japan Scraps Lethal Weapons Export Ban

Japan has scrapped its decades-old ban on lethal weapons exports, marking a significant departure from its postwar pacifist policy. This change, approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet, allows for the sale of Japanese-developed warships, combat drones, fighter jets, missiles, and other weapons to 17 countries with defense equipment and technology transfer agreements. The move is driven by rising security concerns over China, North Korea, and Russia, aiming to bolster Japan's arms industry and enhance its defense capabilities. While welcomed by partners like Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy, China has criticized the policy shift. The new guidelines also facilitate joint development projects, such as the sixth-generation fighter jet with the United Kingdom and Italy, and allow Japan to sell U.S.-designed Patriot missiles back to the United States for potential transfer to Ukraine. The Philippines has also expressed interest in procuring Japanese defense equipment.