Japan Approves Plan to Develop, Sell Next-Gen Fighter Jets

In a significant move away from postwar pacifism, Japan aims to bolster its global security role and arms industry.

Japan's Cabinet has approved a plan to develop and sell next-generation fighter jets, marking a significant shift from the country's postwar pacifist principles.
The decision aims to secure Japan's role in the joint fighter jet project with Britain and Italy, and to bolster Japan's arms industry and global security role.
Revisions to Japan's arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines will now allow for the sale of co-produced lethal weapons to countries other than the project partners.
Public opinion in Japan is divided on the plan, with concerns raised about the lack of public explanation and approval for this major policy change.
The move is part of Japan's broader strategy to deregulate its arms export policies amid rising regional and global tensions, especially from China.