Japan’s cabinet lifted a ban on exporting lethal weapons, including fighter jets, marking the first change to its postwar pacifist export policy since 1976.
Japan authorizes export of fighter jets and missiles under fresh rules
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced the policy shift in an X post on Tuesday, stating that transfers of all defense equipment will in principle become possible. Recipients will be limited to countries that commit to apply weapons in accordance with the UN Charter. The change allows exports of fighter jets, missiles, and warships, which Japan has recently agreed to build for Australia under a separate $7 billion deal.
At least 17 countries identified as potential buyers
Japan’s Chunichi newspaper reported that at least 17 countries will be eligible to purchase Japanese-made weapons under the new framework, with the list expandable through bilateral agreements. Interested nations include Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, which recently signed a major defense pact with the United States. Previous rules, in place since 1967 and enacted in 1976, had restricted exports to non-lethal arms such as surveillance and mine-sweeping equipment.
Export restrictions remain for active conflict zones
Japan will still prohibit weapons exports to countries where fighting is currently taking place, though exemptions may be granted under “special circumstances” tied to national security needs, as reported by Asahi newspaper. The policy maintains a ban on sales to active war zones whereas broadening permissible exports elsewhere. Takaichi’s announcement coincided with her sending a ritual offering to the Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo during its spring festival, a move noted by regional observers for its historical sensitivities.
What weapons can Japan now export?
Japan can now export lethal weapons including fighter jets, missiles, and warships, reversing a decades-long ban that limited exports to non-lethal arms like surveillance and mine-sweeping equipment.
Which countries are eligible to buy Japanese weapons?
At least 17 countries are initially eligible, including Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with the list expandable through bilateral agreements. exports remain barred to countries in active conflict unless special national security exemptions apply.
