Japan has agreed to sell its domestically produced Patriot missiles to the United States, responding to Washington's urgent need for replenishing its stock after supplying the weapons system to Ukraine. The delay in acquiring the missiles was attributed to Japan's stringent export policy, causing Washington to face a shortage of ammunition.

Following the announcement, the White House issued a statement expressing its approval of the Japanese government's decision. The statement read, "We welcome the Government of Japan’s announcement today that it will transfer Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish US inventories."

Notably, the Patriot missiles, particularly the PAC3 surface-to-air missile defense system, manufactured by Japan, possess the capability to directly target individuals and destroy objects. This marks the first instance of Japan exporting a complete lethal weapon system.

A Tokyo government official quoted, "The appropriate transfer of defence equipment overseas will contribute to...international peace and security, and will also strengthen cooperation with allies and the US."

Japan has revised its guidelines to permit the export of completed products to countries where patent holders are based. The new rules stipulate that any re-export to third countries would necessitate permission from Tokyo. This change in policy directly affects the export of Patriot missiles, which Japan produces under licenses from U.S. firms Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.

Furthermore, there are ongoing considerations in Tokyo regarding the potential export of 155mm artillery shells, manufactured under BAE Systems' license, to the United Kingdom, according to reports from the Financial Times.

A Japanese government official explained that export decisions are contingent upon formal requests from the country where the license holder is based. Currently, the United States has been the only country to make such a request.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel applauded the move, describing it as a "historic decision" and a "significant example of Japan's shared commitment to deterrence." He underscored that Japan is undergoing a significant defense modernization.

The ruling party in Japan has been actively contemplating changes to export controls for several months. The existing rules have the potential to pose challenges to the export of next-generation fighter jets currently in development with Britain and Italy.

Image Source: WION