Japan expands defence equipment transfer policy as regional coalitions deepen
Japan has said it will broaden the transfer of defence equipment to selected partners, in a move that reflects growing efforts by US allies in Asia to build closer middle-power coalitions.
The policy shift was confirmed by Japan's cabinet chief, Minoru Kihara, who said it was intended to safeguard Japan's security and contribute to peace and stability in the region.
Under the new approach, Tokyo will still avoid sending armaments to countries engaged in conflict.
The change means as many as 17 major defence partners can now benefit from Japanese military technology.
Japan had previously limited exports under its post-war pacifist constitution to non-lethal categories such as transport, rescue, surveillance, minesweeping and early warning systems.
The announcement matters because it comes as countries including the Philippines seek new networks of partnerships amid concerns over US unreliability and China's growing influence.
It also signals a further loosening of long-standing restrictions on Japanese defence exports.
The policy shift was set out alongside a large-scale military exercise involving more than 17,000 troops from seven nations.
Japan deployed platforms including the Type 88 surface-to-ship missile system, a US-2 amphibious aircraft, C-130H transport aircraft, the JS Ise warship, JS Shimokita landing ship and the destroyer JS Ikazuchi.
