The Japanese government has approved lifting the ban on exporting major weapons, paving the way to sell fighter jets, missiles, and destroyers. This represents a significant policy shift away from the post-World War II pacifist approach.
On 23 April 2026 GMT+7, the Japanese Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, voted to approve lifting the ban on exporting major weapons. This allows Japan to export powerful military equipment such as fighter jets, missiles, and destroyers. Previously, Japan strictly limited arms exports under its post-World War II pacifist constitution, permitting only five categories of equipment: rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and mine clearance devices.
This decision marks a major change in Japan's post-World War II pacifist policy amid efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and expand security cooperation with allied countries.
Minoru Kihara, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, stated that this decision aims to enhance Japan's security and promote peace and stability in the region and the world. It comes at a time when Japan is accelerating military strengthening in response to increasing security challenges in Asia.
However, the opposition views this change as contrary to the spirit of Japan's pacifist constitution, fearing it could increase global tensions and threaten public safety.
Source: NHK