Japan's Cabinet has given the green light to a plan allowing the sale of upcoming next-gen fighter jets, jointly developed with the UK and Italy, to other nations. This move marks a significant departure from Japan's longstanding pacifist stance post-World War II. The decision aims to strengthen Japan's involvement in the joint project and bolster its defense industry while enhancing global security measures.

In addition to approving the sale of these fighter jets, Japan's Cabinet has revised its guidelines regarding arms equipment and technology transfer. This revision permits the sale of co-produced lethal weapons to nations beyond the project's partners.

Traditionally, Japan has restricted arms exports due to its pacifist constitution. However, in light of escalating regional tensions, particularly from neighboring China, Japan has been swiftly deregulating its arms export policies.

The collaboration between Japan, Italy, and the UK aims to develop an advanced fighter jet to replace Japan's aging fleet of F-2 fighters and the UK's and Italy's Eurofighter Typhoons. This partnership, known as the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), headquartered in the UK, is crucial for Japan to acquire advanced capabilities necessary for regional security amidst rising tensions.

Given Japan's history as an aggressor in World War II and the subsequent devastation, the country has maintained a constitution limiting its military to self-defense. Until now, Japan strictly controlled military equipment transfers and prohibited the export of lethal weapons.

Critics have voiced concerns about Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government committing to the fighter jet project without public explanation or approval. To address these concerns, the government has restricted exports of co-developed lethal weapons to the fighter jet and assured that sales won't support active wars. Additionally, only countries with defense partnership agreements with Japan will be eligible to purchase these weapons.

Recent polls indicate mixed public opinion on the plan. Japan began exporting non-lethal military supplies in 2014 and, more recently, approved the sale of 80 lethal weapons and components manufactured under licenses from other countries.

The Cabinet's decision emphasized that the arms export ban on finished products would hinder the fighter jet project's progress and limit Japan's role. Italy and the UK, eager to offset development costs, are supportive of sales.

Prime Minister Kishida's push for greater military and defense industry partnerships aligns with his upcoming state visit to Washington in April. Exporting arms would not only enhance Japan's defense industry but also signify its readiness to play a larger role in global security efforts. Despite efforts to expand its defense industry, Japan has faced challenges attracting customers in the past decade.

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