Responsive Action or Emerging Strategy? Japan’s Revision of Its Arms Transfer Policy

Abstract

This article examines the recent revision of Japan’s arms export policy in the broader context of international rule-making under the Arms Trade Treaty, Japan’s increased involvement in peacekeeping and regional security affairs as well as the challenge faced by its domestic defense industry. The 2014 revision of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was based on various practical reasons. The first was the need to adapt the logistical foundation of the Japanese defense industry. More importantly, the change was made possible because of the increase in public support for Japan to engage in international activities in UN peacekeeping and other security-related programs, the expertise gained through such activities as well as the public awareness of the rapidly shifting security environment in the region. Japan may not drastically increase its arms exports and will continue to comply with the various international disarmament instruments it has supported.