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Japan cabinet approves scrapping ban on lethal weapons exports
Japan's Cabinet approved scrapping the ban on lethal weapons exports, marking a major shift in its postwar pacifist policy. The move aims to build up Japan's arms industry and deepen defense cooperation with partners, clearing the final hurdle for postwar arms sales.
Why It Matters
The decision signals a significant shift in Japan's security and defense posture. It could affect regional arms dynamics and its relations with defense partners.
Timeline
1 Event
Japan cabinet approves scrapping ban on lethal weapons exports
April 21, 2026
Japan's Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, endorsed scrapping the ban on lethal weapons exports, describing it as a major change to its postwar pacifist policy as the country seeks to build up its arms industry and deepen cooperation with defense partners. The approval clears a final set of hurdles for Japan's postwar arms sales.