Japan exports Patriot missiles to U.S. for first time under eased restrictions
 Japan has exported domestically produced Patriot surface-to-air missile interceptors to the United States for the first time under eased restrictions, sources familiar with the matter said Wednesday.
The export of the missiles in the Air Self-Defense Force’s possession was made at the request of the United States, so that Washington could replenish its own stockpile as it provides military support to Ukraine amid Kyiv’s ongoing war with Russia, the sources said.
Japan produces Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptor missiles under U.S. license.
The Japanese government previously limited the export of U.S.-licensed defense products to components. But in 2023, it implemented new rules to allow not just parts but also completed products to be shipped at the request of the country where the manufacturing license originated.
A Defense Ministry official said the ministry has confirmed that the interceptors, used in Japan as part of its antiballistic missile shield, will only be used by the U.S. military and not be provided to a third country. It is unclear how many interceptors were exported.
Japan’s weapons export rules were loosened under then Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.