Japan Opens Arms Trade to Allies, Drawing Global Attention

Japan is set to relax its strict arms export rules, a move that has caught the eye of countries from Poland to the Philippines. The decision follows President Donald Trump’s uncertain stance on defense commitments and the ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, which have strained U. S. weapon supplies. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling party approved the changes this week as part of an effort to strengthen Japan’s military industry. The government plans to enact the new rules within months, according to three officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. Japan has spent $60 billion on its own defense this year, enough to keep a sizable industry that can build advanced submarines and fighter jets. Potential buyers include Poland’s army and the Philippine navy, both modernizing amid regional tensions. Toshiba and Mitsubishi Electric have already increased hiring and expanded facilities to meet expected demand, officials said. The first likely sales could involve used frigates for the Philippines, a nation locked in a maritime dispute with China over the South China Sea. Follow‑up deals might cover missile defense systems.Poland and Japan see an opportunity to fill gaps in each other’s arsenals, especially in anti‑drone and electronic warfare. A Polish diplomat noted that Japan’s participation could help overcome supply bottlenecks, while European officials expressed hope that the policy shift would reduce reliance on U. S. weapons, which are stretched by current wars. The move echoes earlier attempts to ease export restrictions under former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, but progress stalled because many limits remained. Takaichi’s administration believes the new rules will encourage domestic firms to build the capacity needed for a larger defense buildup. Toshiba plans to hire about 500 people over three years and has opened a new export department, saying reputational risk is now lower. Some Japanese companies worry that selling arms could hurt their consumer businesses, but many are focused on growth. Mitsubishi Electric is recruiting for overseas sales roles that cover fighter aircraft and other military exports, targeting Asian markets for finished systems and European, Australian, and U. S. partners for components. Japan will keep strict controls on sending weapons to conflict zones, yet even Ukraine is looking to partner with Japanese drone makers. The U. S. has long dominated global defense supply chains, but Japan’s policy change aims to build independent Asian networks, following South Korea’s example of becoming a major supplier to countries like Poland and the Philippines.