Japan Approves Plan to Sell Next-Generation Fighter Jets
Japan’s Cabinet has approved a plan to sell future next-generation fighter jets developed with Britain and Italy to other countries, marking a significant shift from the country’s postwar pacifist stance.
International Arms Sales Approval
The decision to allow international arms sales is aimed at solidifying Japan’s involvement in the joint fighter jet project and enhancing the country’s arms industry while strengthening its global security role.
Revision of Arms Export Guidelines
The Cabinet also endorsed a revision to Japan’s arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines to permit the sale of coproduced lethal weapons to nations beyond the project partners.
Policy Shift
Japan, traditionally restrictive in arms exports due to its pacifist constitution, is adapting to geopolitical tensions, particularly from neighboring China, by deregulating its arms trade policies.
Global Combat Air Program
Japan, in collaboration with Italy and the UK, is developing an advanced fighter jet as part of the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) to replace aging aircraft in its fleet and enhance its defense capabilities.
Strategic Importance
The new fighter jet is crucial for Japan’s security strategy, providing advanced features to counter regional threats and maintain a technological advantage over competitors like China and Russia.