解放军报文章：日本全面解禁武器出口必将玩火自焚

Core Viewpoint - Japan's Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide is pushing to lift restrictions on arms exports, which could lead to a significant increase in Japan's military exports and raise concerns about regional security [1][2]. Group 1: Policy Changes - The Japanese government plans to submit a motion in February 2026 to abolish the current five categories of arms export restrictions, effectively allowing for a comprehensive opening of arms exports, including potentially lethal equipment [1]. - Since 2014, Japan has gradually relaxed its arms export policies, transitioning from a strict "three principles" of arms exports to a more permissive "three principles of defense equipment transfer," which allows for various types of arms exports under certain conditions [1][2]. Group 2: Military Cooperation and Strategy - The current security policy emphasizes that the transfer of defense equipment is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and it aims to deter adversaries from altering the status quo through military means [2]. - Japan has signed defense equipment and technology transfer agreements with countries such as the U.S., U.K., Italy, Australia, and the Philippines, expanding its military cooperation network and enhancing its overseas military presence [2]. Group 3: Domestic and International Reactions - There is a growing concern among the Japanese public regarding the government's arms export policies, with protests emerging against Japan becoming a "merchant of weapons" [3]. - The government's strategy to expand arms exports is seen as a means to bolster domestic military-related industries and strengthen alliances, but it raises alarms about potential militarization and regional instability [3].