Korean Media: First frigates, then missiles… Japan lifts restrictions on lethal weapons, considers export to Philippines
It is reported that Japan has recently relaxed its export controls on lethal weapons. Following prior negotiations over the export of frigates to the Philippines, Japan has now begun discussions on exporting missiles.
On the 15th, according to NHK, Japan's Ministry of Defense has started examining the possibility of exporting the land-based Self-Defense Force’s "88-type anti-ship missile (SSM-1)" to the Philippines.
On the 6th, Japanese Self-Defense Forces participated in the multinational joint military exercise "Balikatan," led by the United States and the Philippines, firing this missile off the northern coast of Luzon Island in the Philippines, successfully sinking a retired warship located approximately 75 kilometers away.
At the time, Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro jointly observed the target-sinking drill. Afterward, Teodoro expressed interest in the 88-type anti-ship missile and told the media: "Its performance is truly impressive."
According to NHK, the Ministry of Defense plans to gradually phase out the use of this missile and replace it with a newer model, and is currently considering exporting existing stockpiles to other countries.
Additionally, the Japanese government has decided to export secondhand Abukuma-class frigates from the Maritime Self-Defense Force to the Philippines, and has already initiated practical consultations with the Philippines. On the 5th, Ishiba and Teodoro held talks in Manila and agreed to establish a framework for practical consultations regarding the export of these secondhand frigates.
This marks Japan's first export case following the revision of the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment" and their guidelines, which now allow, in principle, the export of lethal weapons.
Previously, Japan's constitutional Article 9, based on "pacifism," effectively prohibited arms exports. However, after establishing the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment" in 2014, Japan began exporting non-combat defense equipment and gradually eased controls on weapons exports. On April 21, Japan revised its system and updated the "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment," formally lifting restrictions on lethal weapons exports for the first time in over 60 years.
Source: Chosun Ilbo
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865237554043913/
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