首例！日媒：日本将首次向澳大利亚出口最上级护卫舰

Core Points - Japan has exported large-scale finished weaponry to Australia, marking the first instance of Japan exporting such equipment to a foreign country and the second overall export of finished weapons [2] - The Australian government has informed Japan that its Aegis-equipped destroyer has won the bid for the procurement of 11 general-purpose frigates, with Japan, Spain, South Korea, and Germany as candidates [2] - Japan's government has significantly revised its "Three Principles on Defense Equipment Transfer" to allow the export of lethal finished weapons to third countries, moving away from its previous restrictions on arms exports [2] Group 1 - Japan's export of large-scale finished weaponry to Australia is a significant shift in its defense policy, as it previously only exported controlled radar to the Philippines [2] - The procurement plan announced by the Australian government in February 2024 includes 11 general-purpose frigates, with Japan's destroyer being selected as the winning bid [2] - The revisions to Japan's defense export principles reflect a broader trend of increasing defense budgets and loosening restrictions on arms exports, raising concerns among neighboring countries regarding Japan's military intentions [2] Group 2 - The Chinese Foreign Ministry has expressed concerns over Japan's military security movements, citing Japan's historical militarism and urging Japan to respect the security concerns of its neighbors [2] - Japan's adjustments to its security policies and defense budget are seen as efforts to enhance its military capabilities, which have drawn scrutiny from the international community [2] - The call for Japan to reflect on its historical invasions and adhere to a path of peaceful development highlights the geopolitical tensions in the region [2]