Japan loosens arms export rules in break from post-WW2 pacifism Japan has lifted its decades-old ban on lethal weapons exports, marking a significant shift from its postwar pacifist policy. The change, approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Cabinet on April 21, 2026, allows Japan to sell weapons to more than a dozen countries with which it has defense agreements, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The new policy replaces previous restrictions that limited arms exports to just five non-lethal categories: rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and minesweeping. Under the updated guidelines, Japan can now export lethal weapons such as next-generation fighter jets and combat drones to its defense partners. While a ban on arms sales to countries involved in active conflict remains in place, exceptions may be made “in special circumstances” for nations with defense pacts with Japan. The government states the change is intended to strengthen Japan’s security and contribute to regional peace and stability amid growing security challenges in Asia. Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized that Japan’s commitment to its pacifist constitution remains unchanged, stating there is “absolutely no change in our commitment to upholding the path and fundamental principles we have followed as a peace-loving nation for over 80 years since the war.” She added that equipment transfers will be made only after “rigorous and cautious judgments” on their permissibility. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described the move as essential for safeguarding Japan’s security and building up its defense industrial base. The policy shift has been welcomed by Japan’s defense partners like Australia and has attracted interest from countries in Southeast Asia and Europe, though China has criticized it as “reckless militarisation.” The decision reflects Japan’s broader military buildup in response to regional tensions and aims to facilitate cooperation with allies while supporting domestic defense industries. Officials say the change clears final hurdles for Japan’s postwar arms sales and enables future exports of advanced weapons systems.
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