Japan is moving forward with a radical change to its post-war pacifist policy, as it will now be able to export lethal weapons abroad, including fighter jets. The cabinet of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has lifted the ban on exporting such equipment, marking a significant shift from the principles adopted after World War II. In a post on X, Takaichi did not specify which weapons would be available for sale; however, Japanese media report that the changes involve fighter aircraft, missiles, and warships—equipment that Japan has already agreed to manufacture for Australia.
New export framework and international restrictions
"With this amendment, transfers of all defense equipment become possible in principle," Takaichi stated, adding that recipients will be limited to countries committed to using the equipment in accordance with the United Nations Charter. She also emphasized that "in an increasingly difficult security environment, no country can any longer protect its peace and security alone." According to reports, at least 17 countries will be able to purchase Japanese weapons, while this list may expand if new bilateral agreements are concluded.
From strict restrictions to military exports
Previous rules, established in 1967 and implemented in 1976, allowed only the export of non-lethal military means, such as surveillance equipment and mine clearance tools. Despite the relaxation, Japan will continue to prohibit the export of weapons to countries where armed conflicts are ongoing, although exceptions are provided under "special circumstances" related to national security. Among the countries reportedly interested in Japanese weapon systems are Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
Billion-dollar deals and defense industry boost
The policy change comes shortly after a $7 billion agreement between Japan and Australia, under which Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will construct the first three of a total of eleven warships for the Australian Navy.
Reactions over the Yasukuni Shrine
The announcements coincided with reports that Takaichi sent a ritual offering to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo on the occasion of its spring festival. The shrine, built in the 19th century to honor Japan's fallen, also includes the names of more than 1,000 convicted war criminals of World War II, 14 of whom were for "Class A" crimes. Visits by Japanese officials to this particular monument historically provoke reactions in countries such as China and South Korea, which suffered the violence of Japanese troops during the war. After the defeat of the Axis powers and the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan adopted a new constitution that renounces participation in wars. However, Takaichi—who is considered "tough" toward China and is often called the "Iron Lady" of Japan—is among the leaders who in recent years have sought a revision of this pacifist stance.
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