Feature: Japan's export reforms reshape defence strategy

Japan is considering exporting JMSDF Abukuma-class frigates to the Philippines. (JMSDF)

Japan is expanding its defence export framework through a combination of regulatory reform, industrial-base development, and greater government involvement in overseas defence co-operation.

As part of this effort, the Ministry of Defense's (MoD's) Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) is planning to establish a new organisation to support defence exports and industrial development.

According to ATLA, the proposed body would integrate functions such as strengthening the domestic industrial base, advancing defence equipment transfers, and accelerating defence innovation.

“From the perspective of promoting equipment transfer, we are proceeding with examinations, in close co-ordination with relevant ministries and agencies, on the modalities of equipment transfer in which the government takes a leading role,” ATLA told Janes in late May.

ATLA said specific measures and implementation arrangements remain under review, and no final decisions have been made on the proposed organisation's functions.

“In any event, we will continue to advance examinations in order to promote the transfer of defence equipment,” ATLA added.

Export reforms

In April, Japan approved revisions to its defence export rules, easing restrictions on the overseas transfer of lethal weapons.

The latest changes build on the introduction of the ‘Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology' in 2014, which replaced Japan's longstanding near-total ban on defence exports, and on further revisions adopted in 2023.

The latest revisions to the ‘Three Principles' and related policies lifted remaining restrictions that had confined Japan's defence equipment exports to five non-lethal categories: rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and minesweeping.

In May, ATLA told Janes that the revised policies enable transfers across all categories of defence equipment, including finished products, parts, technologies, and services such as repair and maintenance.