Japan approved a historic arms export revision on Tuesday. The government changed the Three Principles on the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology. Related operational guidelines also received updates. This policy shift allows arms exports in principle. The government aims to enhance deterrence amid an unstable international order. Strengthening ties with like-minded nations remains a key priority. Bolstering the defense industry’s foundation through proactive exports also matters.
The arms export revision abolishes the five category rule that had restricted export items. Consequently, exporting all kinds of defense equipment is now possible in principle. The export of weapons with lethal capabilities will receive permits under the Self Defense Forces Law. Destroyers and missiles fall into this newly permitted category. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi spoke to reporters at her office on Tuesday. She said growing expectations for Japan’s defense equipment exist internationally. Equipment transfers meeting like minded nations’ needs will enhance their defense capabilities.
Under the former five category system, exports faced severe restrictions. Only a very small number of items such as surveillance radars could go to the Philippines. The Philippines is now considering acquiring Abukuma class destroyers from Japan. These Maritime Self Defense Force vessels are currently scheduled for decommissioning. Indonesia has also expressed interest in acquiring used submarines. Previously, the hurdle for such exports would have been very high. These items did not fall under any of the five categories. Therefore, the arms export revision should ease negotiations significantly.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi plans to visit both countries during Golden Week. He will negotiate potential deals with Philippine and Indonesian officials. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles stated on Saturday that he welcomes Japan’s efforts. He very much supports the expansion of arms exports from Japan. Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and the US Iran conflict have accelerated Japan’s timeline. Tokyo is rushing to prepare for contingencies in a volatile region.
If more countries adopt common equipment through arms exports, interoperability will increase. Nations will be able to share parts during times of crisis. Koizumi told associates that creating a network of countries with the same equipment will enhance deterrence. Developing overseas markets will also strengthen the defense industry’s foundation. Securing sufficient production capacity for weapons and ammunition remains critical. A long term conflict would require sustained industrial output.
However, catching up with rival exporters will not prove easy for Japan. South Korea has been the biggest source of imported weapons for the Philippines recently. Italy remains the main source for Indonesia’s military acquisitions. Thailand relies heavily on imports from China for its defense needs. These three exporting countries frequently appear in the top 10 global arms exporters. Japan has consistently stayed outside that top 10 ranking.
Professor Heigo Sato of Takushoku University studies defense procurement policy. He points out that package deals including installment and training represent the current trend. To win contracts, a framework for government and company cooperation is essential. An official from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries said the company will respond appropriately to government requests. Mitsubishi Electric handles radars and interceptor missiles with expectations for overseas business. However, a company official noted that national security concerns prevent sudden export expansion.
Moreover, the government plans to establish a council of bureau head level officials. Relevant ministries include the National Security Secretariat, Foreign Ministry, Defense Ministry, and Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry. This council will strengthen public private cooperation on the arms export revision. The government also plans to consider establishing a new command center function. Future negotiations with interested nations will test the effectiveness of this new framework. The arms export revision marks a fundamental shift in Japanese defense policy.
