• Japan's Cabinet approved the lifting of the ban on lethal arms exports.
• The new policy includes the export of fighter jets, missiles, and warships.
• Critics argue this move undermines Japan's pacifist constitution and raises global tensions.
• The policy is seen as a strategy to enhance Japan's defense capabilities amid regional security threats.
• Eligible countries for arms sales include Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

Japan has enacted a policy change that abolishes its long-standing ban on the export of lethal weapons, marking a significant departure from its post-World War II pacifist stance. Approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Cabinet, this revision permits the export of a wider range of military equipment, such as fighter jets, missiles, and destroyers. This shift aims to strengthen Japan’s defense industry and expand cooperation with international partners, particularly at a time of escalating security threats in East Asia, according to India Times and NPR.

The newly approved guidelines allow Japan to sell arms to at least 17 countries that have signed defense agreements with Tokyo, a move that aligns with its ambition to deepen defense ties. The Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minoru Kihara, has stated that the policy aims to “ensure safety for Japan and contribute to peace and stability in the region.” Critics within Japan fear that this policy shift may violate the pacifist constitution and increase global tensions, particularly with neighboring countries such as China, which has already voiced concerns, reports Al Jazeera and NPR.

Under the revised policy, Japan plans to expand its arms export portfolio significantly, moving beyond previously permitted exports like protective gear and civilian-use equipment to potentially include more sophisticated military hardware. This expansion reflects a broader effort by Japan to take an active role in regional security, particularly in response to threats posed by North Korea and aggressive actions from China. The government's strategy also includes boosting Japan's defense industry, which has historically been limited to self-defense capabilities, according to India Times and Al Jazeera.

As a part of this policy, Japan has entered into significant defense agreements, including a recent deal with Australia that involves the delivery of Japanese-designed frigates. This transaction not only underscores Japan's prospective role in global arms sales but also aims to strengthen ties with allies in the Asia-Pacific region. The deal includes plans for Japan to engage further in cooperative defense projects with nations like New Zealand and the Philippines, reflecting increasing interest among these nations in purchasing Japanese defense equipment, reports NPR and Al Jazeera.