Japan's Defense Debate: Exporting the Next-Generation Fighter Jet

TOKYO, Feb 22 (News On Japan) - The first-ever discussion between the executives of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito has been held on whether to allow the export of defense equipment, including the "next-generation fighter jet" being developed by Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy, to third countries.

The next-generation fighter jet is aimed to succeed the Air Self-Defense Force's F2 fighter in the mid-2030s.

In the initial discussion held on February 21st by the executives of the LDP and Komeito, the point of contention is whether to permit the export of the finished products of this next-generation fighter jet to third countries unrelated to its development.

Komeito Leader Natsuo Yamaguchi: "If we allow the export of the next-generation fighter jet to third countries without any limitations, it means we are distributing weapons with high killing capabilities all over the world. It could lead to allowing the export of all kinds of weapons."

Komeito insists on the necessity of "restraints" for direct exports to third countries, which are currently not permitted under the existing system, while the government and the LDP are taking a proactive stance.

A government official: "If we can't export to third countries, we won't be able to take the lead in development. This is a line we cannot cross."

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also stated: "I believe that taking a broad and smooth approach to international joint development and production, including the transfer (export) of finished products to third countries, is in our national interest."

The government and the LDP are considering a plan that would limit export destinations to countries that have signed agreements on defense equipment and exclude countries engaged in combat.

The rush to discuss is because discussions on the development framework among the three countries will intensify from next month.

Although the discussion on Wednesday aimed for a conclusion within this month, it remains to be seen whether an agreement will be reached.

by Brian Dentry

Source: ANN

Nara Palaces Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage

Nara's Asuka and Fujiwara Palaces have been officially recommended as a candidate for UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage list, with the goal of achieving registration at the World Heritage Committee meeting scheduled for the year after next.

University of Tokyo to Increase Tuition by 20%

University of Tokyo President Teruo Fujii revealed that the university is finalizing plans to raise undergraduate tuition fees by 20%, starting with students entering next academic year.

Separate Surnames for Married Couples: Why Japan Still Says No

The ongoing debate over the legalization of separate surnames for married couples in Japan is a topic that has polarized both politicians and the public for over three decades.

Two Men Use Fake Gold to Steal Millions

Two Liberian men have been arrested on suspicion of stealing 34 million yen through a trick using copper particles plated with gold.

Former Bigmotor Kawasaki Manager Fined 200,000 Yen for Cutting Azaleas

The Yokohama District Court on Monday sentenced a former manager of Bigmotor's Kawasaki branch to a fine of 200,000 yen for damaging public property by cutting azaleas in front of the store.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Politics NEWS

Shinjiro Koizumi Talks of Reform 56 Times, Echoes Father's Rhetoric

Shinjiro Koizumi, the former Environment Minister and son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, recently announced his candidacy for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leadership. During the press conference, Koizumi emphasized his reform agenda, frequently using phrases like 'reforms without sanctuary' and 'trinity reforms,' reminiscent of the slogans used by his father.

How Japan's Biggest Idiot Singlehandedly Destroyed a Political Party

Tachibana Takashi spent thirteen years building a popular political movement, and immediately destroyed it all with extremely simple blunders. (Japanalysis)

Hyogo Governor Issued Over 2,000 Orders During Nights and Holidays

In ongoing investigations over power harassment, Governor Saito of Hyogo Prefecture allegedly issued more than 2,000 work-related directives via chat to senior officials during nights and holidays over the course of a year.

Australia-Japan Frame Key Defence Initiatives

Japan and Australia have framed a series of new initiatives and dialogues, ranging from economic security, Pacific digital development, working with the US on strategic communications to bolster the commitment to collective deterrence against force and coercion in the Indo-Pacific. (aspistrategist.org.au)