Japan recently took a rather dangerous step by announcing the transfer of "Patriot" missiles to the United States. At the same time, the Chinese side put forward four demands, sending a strong signal. What exactly does this decision mean?And what are the four demands put forward by the Chinese side?
Kishida** has been working to break through the constraints of the post-war pacifist constitution, and recently passed the fiscal year 2024 budget, raising the defense budget to 79 trillion yen, a new high. At the same time, the new version of the "Three Principles for the Transfer of Defense Equipment" and the guidelines for its application were deliberated and approved, and it was decided to export Japanese-made "Patriot" air defense missiles to the United States. This marks the first time since 2014 that the Japanese cabinet has allowed the export of lethality**, and the first time that Japanese-made defense equipment has gone abroad. Compared with the air warning radar system previously transferred to the Philippine Air Force, the "Patriot" missile, which was sold back to the United States for the first time, is more lethal and more dangerous.
Military experts generally agree that allowing the export of lethal finished products is a rather dangerous signal that could trigger a chain reaction and even exacerbate regional tensions. The revised policy not only allows Japan to export its production to countries with "production licenses", but also allows these countries to export its production to third countries. Although the regulations clearly state that shipments to countries or regions that are parties to the conflict are not allowed, this does not rule out the possibility that the United States and Western countries will send goods to Ukraine, Middle Eastern countries and even the Taiwan region.
The Tokyo Shimbun commented that the revised "Three Principles for the Transfer of Defense Equipment" marks a major shift in Japan's export policy, which makes people worry that it may contribute to international conflicts. Military experts pointed out that once the "Patriot" missiles are sold back to the United States, Japan may further "loosen its bonds" and export more lethality to foreign countries, which will pose a serious threat to regional security. At that time, Japan may become the "best businessman" of the United States, Britain, and other countries, and its military ties with third countries will also be further strengthened.
It is worth noting that although the United States welcomes this decision of Japan**, believing that it will help strengthen Japan's security and strengthen peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, more countries are worried about it, believing that it is not conducive to the stability of the regional situation. Russia's "Kommersant" article on the 21st pointed out that although Japan's "resale" of missiles to the United States cannot fundamentally change the situation of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, and can only alleviate the problem of insufficient ammunition stocks in the US military, this opens the door to arming Ukraine, and there are certain risks.
At a regular press conference on the 25th, spokesperson Mao Ning made a clear statement on Kishida's revision of the "Three Principles for the Transfer of Defense Equipment". Mao Ning urged the Japanese side to "earnestly respect the security concerns of its neighbors;."Deeply reflect on the history of aggression;Adhere to the path of peaceful development;Win the trust of our Asian neighbors and the international community with concrete actions. "The four conditions put forward by the Chinese side show that Japan's continuous relaxation of export restrictions has aroused a high degree of vigilance among all international parties. If Kishida continues to break through the restrictions of the pacifist constitution, seek military development, or even re-embark on the road of militarism, the consequences will be incomprehensible. China has no intention of interfering in the development process of other countries, but in response to Japan's decision, China clearly expresses its concern for regional security and calls on Japan to act prudently.