Japan's Cabinet approves plan to sell future fighter jets developed with Britain and Italy

The Japanese Cabinet has given the green light to a plan that will allow the sale of future next-generation fighter jets, developed in partnership with Britain and Italy, to other countries. This marks a significant shift from Japan's postwar pacifist principles and its long-standing restrictions on arms exports.

Joint Fighter Jet Project and Global Security

The approval of international arms sales is aimed at securing Japan’s participation in the joint fighter jet project while also enhancing the country’s arms industry and its role in global security. The move is part of Japan’s efforts to deregulate its arms export policies in response to increasing regional and global tensions, particularly from neighboring China.

Revised Guidelines and Expansion of Sales

The Cabinet has also endorsed a revision to Japan’s arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines, permitting the sale of co-produced lethal weapons to countries beyond the project partners. This decision allows Japan to export co-produced lethal weapons to other nations for the first time, signaling a significant policy shift.

Joint Development with Italy and the U.K.

Japan, in collaboration with Italy and the U.K., is working on the development of an advanced fighter jet intended to replace its aging fleet of American-designed F-2 fighters, and the Eurofighter Typhoons used by the U.K. and Italian militaries. The joint project, known as the Global Combat Air Program or GCAP, is based in the U.K, with deployment expected in 2035.

Strategic Importance and Technological Edge

The new fighter jet is anticipated to provide Japan with advanced capabilities essential for navigating the growing tensions in the region, ensuring it maintains a technological edge against regional rivals, including China and Russia.

Policy Change and Public Debate

The decision to commit to the fighter jet project has sparked debate and criticism, with opponents questioning the government's rationale and the lack of public explanation or approval for the major policy shift.

Export Limitations and Reassurances

To address concerns, the government has imposed export limitations on co-developed lethal weapons initially, with assurances that no sales will be authorized for use in active wars. Furthermore, the revised guidelines currently apply solely to the jet, with a commitment to seek Cabinet approval for any expansion. Potential purchasers are also restricted to the 15 countries with which Japan has existing defense partnership and equipment transfer agreements.

Public Opinion and Policy Evolution

Recent polls indicate a divided public opinion on the plan, reflecting the ongoing debate over Japan's evolving defense and arms export policies.

Expansion of Arms Exports

This latest decision follows Japan’s previous steps toward easing restrictions on arms exports, including the approval to sell 80 lethal weapons and components manufactured under licenses from other countries, thereby opening the door for Japan to export U.S.-designed Patriot missiles to the United States.

Challenges and Global Partnerships

The move to allow international arms sales aligns with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s efforts to strengthen military and defense industry partnerships, as Japan seeks to expand its role in global security and bolster its defense industry.

Future Outlook and Defense Industry

The decision to permit arms exports is expected to not only support the development of the new fighter jet but also contribute to the expansion of Japan’s defense industry. Historically focused on serving the country’s Self Defense Force, Japan’s defense industry is now poised for potential growth with the prospect of international sales.