Japan has agreed to send two Patriot missile batteries to the US as part of a deal to bolster their defense cooperation amid rising tensions over Ukraine. The move aligns with the US and its allies are preparing for a possible Russian invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow denies planning. The Patriot missiles are designed to intercept incoming ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as aircraft and drones.
The deal was announced on Tuesday by Japan’s Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who met in Tokyo for a bilateral security dialogue. They also discussed other issues such as China’s military activities in the Indo-Pacific region, North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, and the situation in Afghanistan. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the US-Japan alliance, calling it “the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity” in the region.
The decision to send Patriot missiles to the US is a significant shift from Japan’s longstanding pacifist foreign policy, which prohibits the country from exporting weapons to countries at war. Japan has recently amended its arms export laws, allowing it to ship finished goods to the nation where the manufacturing license originated. This change was reportedly requested by the US government, which faces ammunition shortages as it continues supplying Ukraine in its defense against Russia.
The White House welcomed the move, stating it would “enhance our collective security and deterrence capabilities” and support Japan’s efforts to “play a more active role in regional and global security”. However, the transfer of Patriot missiles to the US doesn’t necessarily mean that they will be sent to Ukraine. Japan would still need to approve such a decision. For now, the Japan-made Patriot missiles are expected to replenish the US stockpiles, while Washington sends US-made missiles to Ukraine.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries manufactures the Patriot missiles under license from US defense contractors Lockheed Martin and RTX. They are among the most advanced weapons supplied by the US to Ukraine, which has been asking for more air defense support for months. Ukraine has warned that it is already being forced to downsize military operations because of a drop-off in foreign aid. Earlier this month, the US Congress failed to approve a $60bn aid package for Ukraine despite a plea from President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The situation in Ukraine remains tense, as Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops near its border, sparking fears of a full-scale invasion. Russia denies any aggressive intentions, saying it is responding to NATO’s expansion and provocations. The US and its allies have condemned Russia’s actions and pledged to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They have also imposed sanctions on Russia and warned of more severe consequences if it attacks Ukraine.
Japan’s decision to send Patriot missiles to the US is a sign of its solidarity with the US and its allies in the face of Russia’s aggression. It also reflects Japan’s growing concern over China’s military rise and assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region, where Japan has territorial disputes with China over the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands. Japan has been increasing its defense spending and capabilities and strengthening its security ties with other countries such as Australia, India, and the UK.
Japan’s move may also have implications for the future of its pacifist constitution, which was adopted after World War Two and limits its military to self-defense purposes. The constitution has been a source of debate and controversy in Japan, as some politicians and experts argue that it needs to be revised to allow Japan to play a more proactive role in regional and global security. Others, however, oppose any changes that would undermine Japan’s peaceful identity and reputation.
Japan’s decision to send Patriot missiles to the US is a bold and unprecedented step in evolving foreign policy. It reflects the country’s willingness to support international efforts to deter Russia while balancing its pacifist stance. It also reflects its commitment to the US-Japan alliance, which is vital for the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. However, the move may also raise questions and challenges for Japan’s pacifist foreign policy, a cornerstone of its post-war identity and diplomacy.
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