Japan loosens arms exports rules in major shift

MELBOURNE — Japan is loosening its restrictions for arms exports to allow for lethal weapons to go to several countries, in a move that has been long-awaited from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

“In an increasingly severe security environment, no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone, and partner countries that support each other in terms of defense equipment are necessary,” Takaichi wrote on her X account today. “Meeting such needs and carrying out transfers of defense equipment will contribute to enhancing the defense capabilities of these countries and, ultimately, to preventing the outbreak of conflicts, thereby contributing to Japan’s security.”

Today’s announcement by the Cabinet Secretariat means Japan will now be able to export lethal equipment to 17 countries that it has signed defense equipment and technology transfer agreements with, including the US, United Kingdom, Australia, and India.

Previously, Japan only allowed the export of defense equipment falling under five categories: mine-countermeasures systems, surveillance, monitoring, transport and rescue equipment.

Despite these loosened restrictions, the transfer of lethal arms to countries involved in ongoing conflicts is still prohibited except in “exceptional circumstances,” for instance, if the country seeking weapons is subject to armed aggression. Any such transfers would still require the approval of the four ministers of Japan’s National Security Council — the prime minister, chief cabinet secretary, foreign minister and defense minister.

“In conducting equipment transfers, we will comply with international export control frameworks and conduct even stricter reviews on a case-by-case basis” Takaichi continued in her post. “We will also ensure proper management at the recipient’s end. Furthermore, recipients will be limited to countries that commit to use in accordance with the UN Charter.”

Japan’s allies and partners have welcomed its decision, with US ambassador to Japan George Glass saying that it would contribute to the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific.

“This historic step will not only enhance the defense capabilities of countries collaborating with the Japan-U.S. alliance but also strengthen our collective capacity to maintain peace throughout the region and safeguard freedom even further,” he wrote on X.

The relaxation of Japan’s arms export rules comes after the announcement over the weekend that the country signed contracts with Australia for the sale of 11 upgraded Mogami-class frigates. The announcement was made during a visit to the frigate Kumano in Melbourne by Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles and his Japanese counterpart Shinjirō Koizumi Saturday.

It was also announced by Japan’s NEC Corporation that it would be exporting nine types of equipment including sonar, navigation and communications systems to Australia for its future frigates, including the distinctive UNICORN integrated communications mast of the Mogami-class.