The Japanese government has decided to abolish the "five categories" that limited arms exports to noncombat purposes such as "rescue" and "transport," lifting the ban on exporting lethal weapons and allowing exports even to countries currently in conflict when there are "special security circumstances."The government says the move is intended to broaden sales channels to strengthen the defense industrial base, bolster Japan's ability to sustain operations in an emergency and enhance deterrence in recipient countries.Japan has traditionally been cautious about arms exports out of concern -- …READ FULL ARTICLE
