Japan seeks to sell missiles to Philippines under new defense law

Published on May 17, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

Japan explores exporting missiles to the Philippines, according to recent reports indicating a shift in its defense policy. This potential sale is supported by the reform of arms export rules presented in Tokyo last month, which removes previous restrictions and allows more direct agreements with allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

Japanese Type 12 surface-to-ship missile launcher being loaded onto a Philippine Navy transport vessel at a dock, Japanese and Filipino engineers in uniform inspecting missile canisters with portable diagnostic tablets, crane hoisting a missile assembly with visible guidance fins, naval base background with sunrise lighting, technical illustration style, metallic reflections on weapon systems, safety barriers and calibration equipment in foreground, photorealistic engineering visualization, clear action of transfer process, dramatic industrial lighting with ocean haze

Long-range missiles and active radars: Japan's new catalog 🚀

The defense package Tokyo is considering includes long-range cruise missiles, such as the improved Type 12, capable of reaching targets over 1,000 kilometers away. Surveillance radar systems and electronic warfare technology are also mentioned. These systems would allow Manila to strengthen its maritime surveillance and deterrence in the South China Sea, although their integration with existing equipment will require technical adaptations and interoperability agreements.

From samurai to sellers: the art of peaceful export 🗾

Who would have thought that Japan, the land of sushi and bonsai, would end up selling missiles like souvenirs. Now, Southeast Asian neighbors can buy their batch of rockets with the same ease as an origami kit. Of course, as long as they don't ask about the return policy: once launched, no exchanges are accepted.