Japan Approves Plan to Export Fighter Jets, Breaking from Pacifist Tradition

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n a historic move, Japan’s Cabinet has given the green light to a plan that signals a significant departure from the nation’s postwar pacifist principles. The decision, announced on Tuesday, paves the way for Japan to export future next-generation fighter jets developed in collaboration with Britain and Italy to other countries.

The decision to allow international arms sales represents a major shift in Japan’s defense posture and is expected to bolster the country’s role in global security efforts. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized that while the move reflects Japan’s evolving security environment, the nation remains committed to its pacifist principles.

Under the approved plan, Japan’s arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines will be revised to permit the sale of co-produced lethal weapons to countries beyond the project’s partners. Hayashi assured that strict approval processes will be enforced to ensure compliance with Japan’s commitment to peace.

Global Combat Air Program

The joint fighter jet project, known as the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), involves collaboration with Italy and the U.K. The initiative aims to develop an advanced fighter jet to replace Japan’s aging fleet of American-designed F-2 fighters and the Eurofighter Typhoons used by the U.K. and Italian militaries.

This decision marks a significant departure from Japan’s long-standing policy of restricting arms exports under its pacifist constitution. However, amid growing regional tensions, particularly from neighboring China, Japan has moved to deregulate its arms exports in recent years.

The move to export fighter jets and lethal weapons is seen as crucial for Japan’s participation in the project and its efforts to maintain technological superiority in the region, particularly against rivals like China and Russia.

Strengthening Japan’s military capabilities

While the decision has faced criticism from opponents, who argue that the government has not adequately explained the decision or sought public approval, the government has assured that exports will be limited to codeveloped lethal weapons for the jet and will not be used in active wars.

The Cabinet’s decision comes amid broader efforts by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s government to strengthen Japan’s military capabilities and defense industry partnerships. Kishida is expected to emphasize Japan’s willingness to play a greater role in military cooperation during an upcoming state visit to Washington in April.

The move to export fighter jets and lethal weapons is also expected to benefit Japan’s defense industry, which has traditionally focused on supplying the country’s Self Defense Force. By expanding into international markets, Japan aims to support its defense industry while furthering its military capabilities.

Source: The Associated Press