JAPAN EXPANDS LETHAL ARMS EXPORTS TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

Japan is rapidly shifting from pacifist policies by negotiating weapons transfer pacts with the Philippines, including potential destroyer deals, and exploring frigate and submarine cooperation with Indonesia. This marks Tokyo's emergence as a key hard-power supplier in maritime Southeast Asia to counter China. The moves signal deepening regional alliances amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Accompanied by tours from Japan's defense minister, these developments underscore a new phase of geopolitical balancing.