Japan has announced plans to adjust its military equipment transfer regulations to permit the export of the jet fighter it is co-developing with Britain and Italy. This decision, disclosed by Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, addresses a potential hurdle that could have impeded the project's progress.
The collaborative effort, known as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), involves key players such as Britain's BAE Systems PLC, Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Italy's Leonardo. The program aims to introduce an advanced fighter aircraft by the mid-2020s.
Under Japan's strict military export rules, overseas sales of lethal equipment are prohibited. However, loosening these regulations will enable Tokyo's partners to market the aircraft internationally, which would help distribute development costs across a larger number of units and potentially reduce unit costs.
The adjustment in export rules will allow sales to countries with defense equipment transfer agreements with Japan and that are not engaged in conflicts. Each export will require Cabinet approval, and the rule change will specifically apply to the GCAP fighter.
Partnerships with additional countries, such as Saudi Arabia, are being considered to participate in GCAP as junior partners. Saudi Arabia's involvement could bring financial contributions and expand the market for the project, which is anticipated to involve significant expenditures.
Various companies, including European missile maker MBDA, Japanese avionics manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric Corp, and engine makers Rolls-Royce PLC, IHI Corp, and Avio Aero, are also contributing to the GCAP initiative.
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