For decades, Japan was legally barred from exporting lethal military equipment to anyone.
This morning, Prime Minister Takaichi’s cabinet abolished the so-called “5 categories” rule that limited exports to non-combat purposes only.
Japan can now export destroyers, missiles, and fully armed military hardware to its allies.
The first recipients will be countries that have signed defense transfer agreements with Japan — including the US, Australia, and the Philippines.
That last one matters: the Philippines is under direct pressure from Chinese naval forces in the South China Sea right now.
Japan’s defense industry, long kept on a short leash, can now compete on the global stage.
Takaichi called it “strengthening the alliance.” China called Japan’s recent naval passage through the Taiwan Strait “deliberate provocation.”
