Published December 6, 2024
Russia has expressed concern that the Japanese-manufactured missiles for the Patriot air defense system, which Tokyo plans to transfer to Washington, might ultimately be used in the Ukraine war.
The Russian Embassy in Japan expressed this concern to Izvestia, warning that Moscow would view such a development as a hostile act.
Patriot air defense systems are among the most advanced weapons the US supplied to Ukraine and have been critical in defending against Russian attacks. However, Washington’s substantial support for Ukraine has strained its arsenal.
As a result, Washington turned to Japan to address its urgent need to replenish its depleted weapons stockpiles following the multibillion-dollar arms shipments provided to Ukraine.
In July 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Defense finally approved the transfer of missiles for the US Patriot PAC-3 system. That decision marked a major shift in Japan’s defense policy.
Previously, Tokyo only permitted the export of components tied to licensed manufacturing agreements. New rules implemented earlier this year allow Japan to export fully assembled defense products.
A condition of the agreement prohibits the transfer of these weapons to Kyiv without Japan’s explicit approval. Tokyo maintains its longstanding ban on exporting weapons to nations actively involved in a conflict.
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SOURCE: www.eurasiantimes.com
