Japan relaxes rules on exporting lethal weapons

The Cabinet of Japan approved plans on Tuesday to relax the country's weapon export rules, namely to allow for sales of future-generation fighter jets Japan is producing with Britain and Italy. Leaders also supported revising arms export guidelines, allowing co-produced weapons to be exported to non-partner countries. The updated statute only allows for the jet to be exported, not any lethal weapon produced in Japan. The cabinet would also need to approve jet exports.

Why is the plan so controversial? It’s Japan’s second weapons export policy change in the last four months, marking a departure from the country’s pacifist policies implemented after World War II. However, the Cabinet of Japan Chief Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi insists the country’s peaceful principles are not at risk. For instance, the plan does not allow weapon exports to countries currently in conflict. Hayashi told reporters that the changes are necessary “to avoid jeopardizing the defense of Japan” but that Japan will continue adhering to “our basic philosophy as a peaceful nation.” Analysts note the deregulation of weapons exports coincides with rising tensions between Japan and neighboring China.

What kind of jet is being developed? The United Kingdom and Italy are partnering with Japan on the Global Combat Air Program to develop advanced fighter jets. The program aims to combine designs from each country to create “a truly next-generation combat aircraft in 2035.” 

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