Japan Cabinet Approves Export Of Fighter Jets

In Japan, the cabinet has approved the export of fighter jets to countries that Japan has signed defence pact with, and where there are no ongoing conflicts. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said the changes are necessary given Japan’s security environment, citing threats posed by nearby China and North Korea.

The next-generation fighter jets which Japan is developing with Britain and Italy are expected to be deployed by 2035. Authorities said that each fighter jet sale will require the approval of the cabinet.



The Cabinet also endorsed a revision to Japan’s arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines to allow coproduced lethal weapons to be sold to countries other than the partners.

 

The cabinet decision reflects Japan’s move away from its postwar- pacifist policies. However, Japanese Defence Minister Minoru Kihara said that Japan would still remain committed to the basic philosophy of a pacifist nation by going through strict decision processes for exports.