Japan Eases Defense Goods Exports

The Cabinet of Japan approved a plan to sell next-generation fighter jets to third countries, easing regulations on defense goods exports.

On March 26, 2024, Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, noted that “changes are necessary given the security situation.”

In Japan, for a long time, there were restrictions on the export of weapons, particularly fighters, due to the constitution’s “pacifist principles.”

At the same time, the Chief Cabinet Secretary stressed that the “pacifist principles” of Japan have not changed.

“We have clearly demonstrated that we will continue to adhere to our basic philosophy as a peaceful nation,” he stated, adding that all export decisions will go through a “strict approval process.”

In addition, the ministers agreed on a review of provisions concerning the export of Japanese military equipment and technology to third countries, expanding beyond partner countries.

Japan is currently developing the next generation of fighter jets with Italy and the United Kingdom to replace its obsolete fleet of F-2 and Eurofighter Typhoon fighters.

It’s about the development of a promising multi-purpose combat aircraft under the GCAP program.

Last December, Britain, Italy, and Japan signed an agreement to further develop a promising multi-role fighter under the GCAP program.

This agreement marked the beginning of the development of the aircraft, which, according to the plan, should take to the sky by 2035.

The main criterion will be the multifunctionality of the new combat aircraft. It will be able to use various weapons, including promising Japanese-British JNAAM medium-range missiles.

BAE Systems, in partnership with Rolls-Royce, Leonardo UK, and MBDA UK are involved in the development of a promising aircraft from Britain. Italy is represented by Leonardo S.p.A, and Japan — by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, IHI Corporation, and Mitsubishi Electric.