By Admin 
For the first time in history, Japan has exported its indigenously made Patriot missile interceptor to America. Their number has not been disclosed at present. This step is considered not just a military deal, but a major change in Japan’s decades-old defense policy. Japanese media has claimed quoting defense sources.
According to Kyodo News Agency, this export has become possible under the new rules which Japan implemented in December 2023. These rules partially relaxed many restrictions on arms export. With this, Japan can now send complete weapon systems to licensed countries. Before this, Japan could only sell parts.
capable of teaching a lesson to enemies
These missiles sent to America are Patriot PAC-3 interceptors. It is capable of destroying enemy weapons like ballistic and cruise missiles in the air itself. This missile system is manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan under American license.
Japan says that this export is to fill the stock of America’s army. In the last few years, due to Ukraine conflict, America has been continuously providing missile support to its allies. The pressure on its reserves is increasing. In this background, Japanese supplies will help strengthen American defense preparedness.
America will not be able to send these missiles to third countries
The Japanese government has also clarified that these missiles are only for America’s use. Washington will not send them to any third country. This decision is important because the people of Japan and its politics have been very sensitive about arms export for a long time.
After World War I, Japan adopted a “defense only” policy, under which the export of weapons abroad was almost completely prohibited. Therefore this deal became possible after a lot of political discussion.
Debate on changing policy intensifies in Japan
This policy change has also intensified the debate within Japan. Supporters say that Japan will have to strengthen its role amidst the changing security environment, China’s increasing military activities, North Korea’s continuous missile tests and instability in the Asia-Pacific region. According to him, sending missiles to America makes the Japan-America security partnership more reliable. Strengthens the joint defense strategy of both the countries.
Opponents argue that this move could unnecessarily involve Japan in international conflicts. Could weaken its identity as a “peaceful nation”. He says that even though the missiles are not being sent for direct use in war, this start can open the way for export of bigger weapons in future, which is contrary to the traditional policies of the country.
Despite this, the government believes that this change is the need of the hour in view of the current global security situation. For Japan, this is not just the expansion of the defense industry but also an effort to strengthen its strategic position.