"Japan Eases Arms Export Policy, Sells Patriot Missiles to US for Ukraine Defense"

Japan has relaxed its restrictions on weapons exports and will now allow the sale of advanced air defense systems, specifically Patriot missiles, to the United States. This move aims to bolster American military stockpiles and support Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion. The sale of these missiles, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries under license from American companies Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, will contribute to strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This decision, along with South Korea's efforts to sell arms to Poland, could help deter potential adversaries like North Korea and China by demonstrating the building of a global arms supply chain among democratic allies.