Japan to sell fighter jets in latest break from post-war pacifist ideals

Japan’s cabinet has given its nod for the export of newly developed fighter jets, a joint endeavour with the UK and Italy, signalling a departure from its longstanding pacifist stance.

In a significant shift, Japan has relaxed its arms export regulations to allow the sale of these jets to countries with which it has defence agreements, provided there is no ongoing conflict.

With concerns over the perceived threats posed by China and North Korea, Japan has committed to doubling its military expenditure by 2027.

Authorities have stated that each sale of the fighter jets will necessitate approval from the cabinet.

In December 2022, Japan joined forces with the UK and Italy in a collaborative effort, known as the Tempest, to develop these advanced fighter jets equipped with artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art sensors to aid pilots.

Scheduled for deployment by 2035, these jets represent Tokyo’s inaugural defence equipment development partnership with a nation other than the US.