TOKYO: To facilitate the sale of next-generation fighter jets being built with Britain and Italy, Japan’s Cabinet on Tuesday, March 26, loosened the stringent restrictions governing the transfer of military hardware The three nations are combining their expertise in advanced air warfare technology to construct the jet, which they anticipate being completed by 2035.
According to government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi, the ruling coalition’s agreement earlier this month led to the Cabinet’s approval to modify Japan’s weapons export regulations.
Until recently, it was illegal to sell military hardware to a third nation, however, there have been a few exceptions.
“The plan to make fighter jets with capabilities essential for the security of our nation must be realised, to ensure that our nation’s defences won’t be compromised,” Hayashi told the press.
“We need to have a system in place that would allow us to transfer defense equipment to countries other than our partners and to make contributions on par with the UK and Italy.”
