Japan Eyes Export of Used Lethal Weapons, Including Surplus SDF Equipment

Japan's government is reportedly moving to significantly loosen its restrictions on arms exports, signaling a major shift in its post-war defense policy. The Yomiuri Shimbun reports that Tokyo is considering revising its long-standing 'three principles on defense equipment transfer' to permit the export of used lethal weapons, a move that would further open the door for Japanese defense manufacturers.

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Japan's government is considering revisions to the Self-Defense Forces Act to allow the provision of surplus lethal and destructive equipment, no longer needed by the Self-Defense Forces, to foreign nations.

This potential policy change includes exploring amendments to the Self-Defense Forces Act. The aim is to allow the provision of surplus lethal and destructive equipment, no longer needed by the Self-Defense Forces, to foreign nations. This could involve offering such equipment for free or at significantly reduced prices. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the administration of Sanae Takaichi to actively promote the export of military hardware.

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The Self-Defense Forces Act stipulates that surplus equipment can be provided to specific countries for disaster relief, intelligence gathering, or training, but excludes combat weapons including ammunition.

Previously, under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's revision of the 'three principles' in 2014, arms exports were cautiously expanded but largely confined to five categories: 'structure, transport, surveillance, mine-sweeping, and rescue.' The recent operational guideline revision on April 21st abolished the 'five types' restriction, effectively removing most limitations on exporting weapons with lethal and destructive capabilities, except for specific cases. This paves the way for Japan to export items like missiles, fighter jets, and submarines, which were virtually prohibited after World War II.

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The Self-Defense Forces can provide surplus equipment to allied nations to enhance their defense capabilities, which in turn strengthens Japan's own deterrence and response capabilities, leading to stability in the regional security environment.

From the perspective of Hankyoreh, this development is deeply concerning and warrants close scrutiny. While Japan frames this as a necessary step to enhance regional deterrence, particularly in response to China's assertive maritime expansion, the implications for regional stability are profound. The potential sale of used lethal equipment, such as the Abukuma-class destroyers or Oyashio-class submarines to the Philippines and Indonesia respectively, could significantly alter the regional military balance. The argument that providing surplus equipment enhances the defense capabilities of allies, thereby strengthening Japan's own deterrence and response capabilities, is a justification that overlooks the potential for escalating regional tensions. This move represents a significant departure from Japan's pacifist post-war identity and raises questions about its future role in global security.

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This is to enhance deterrence by strengthening cooperation with allies amidst China's unilateral maritime expansion.