Japan's Intent to Expand Arms Exports Raises Concerns

Reference News Network reported on May 1 According to Japan's "Daily News" on April 29, the Japanese government has revised the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment" and its operational guidelines, marking a shift in national security policy.

Japan's export of equipment was originally strictly limited to the following non-combat purposes: rescue, transportation, vigilance, surveillance, and mine clearance. The government has now lifted the "five types" restrictions on defense equipment exports, allowing the export of lethal weapons in principle. Furthermore, if the Japanese government determines that there are "special circumstances," it can also export weapons to countries involved in armed conflict.

At the time of this policy adjustment, the government provided opportunities for media organizations to interview officials. During the Q&A session, I asked, "You mentioned 'sustained combat capability in times of crisis,' does this mean the government is relaxing weapon export standards based on the premise of 'war'? Wouldn't this undermine Japan's image as a peaceful nation?"

The government representative evasively replied, "Our original intention is not to presuppose war, but to enhance deterrence by establishing mechanisms that include sustained combat capability, thereby preventing war before it occurs. This will not damage our image as a peaceful nation."

Government officials could not assert that there is "absolutely no presupposition of war," and how to align the new measures with the national image Japan has shaped since the war seems to be a source of concern for the government. Additionally, although the government emphasizes "adhering to the basic concept of a peaceful nation," it has not mentioned how to specifically implement this.

Indeed, Japan's security environment is becoming increasingly severe, and a country cannot rely solely on its own strength to ensure security.

Nevertheless, if weapon exports are seen as confrontational measures against specific countries, it may exacerbate regional tensions.

If the U.S. launches military strikes against Iran, which violates international law, can Japan provide weapons to the U.S.? When asked whether there is a risk of exported weapons being used in actual combat, the government did not provide a direct answer.

However, if weapons made in Japan fall into the hands of parties involved in conflict, the risk of Japan becoming a "co-conspirator" will increase. Even if the Japanese government decides to promote weapon exports, shouldn't it exercise more caution?

In 2024, the Japanese government approved a decision: to allow the export of next-generation fighter jets currently being jointly developed with the UK and Italy to third countries. In this revision, the government not only lifted the "five types" restrictions but also, in principle, allowed "the export of jointly developed and produced weapons to third countries."

The government claims it will strengthen the regulatory framework and continuously monitor the management of recipient countries after receiving the exported weapons. However, it remains unclear whether Japan will implement such regulation for the export of jointly developed equipment to third countries. There are also voices within the Japanese government acknowledging, "It is difficult to comprehensively track the final use of related equipment."

Japan must avoid gradually expanding weapon exports to prevent undermining the concept of a peaceful nation. It is hoped that the government will establish strict rules to prevent exacerbating international conflicts.

(Translated by Ma Xiaoyun)