Japan scraps decades-old restrictions on lethal weapons exportslethal weapons exports to allies

Japan's cabinet approved a sweeping overhaul of its defense export policy on Tuesday, eliminating restrictions that had limited military equipment transfers to nonlethal categories and clearing the way for exports of warships, tanks, missiles, and other lethal systems. The shift marks a historic departure from Japan's post-war pacifist stance, though the government retained core safeguards including strict screening, controls on third-party transfers, and a ban on sales to countries involved in conflict.

The policy change reflects Japan's effort to strengthen its defense industrial base and diversify procurement options for allies amid strained U.S. weapons production and uncertainty over American security commitments. Countries including Poland and the Philippines are already exploring procurement options, with one potential early deal involving used Japanese warships to Manila. Major defense contractors such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries stand to benefit from expanded overseas markets, though analysts note Japanese producers will face intense global competition and require long-term investments to compete on price against established suppliers.