Japan to Boost Ukraine's Air Defenses with Patriot Missile Shipments

Japan has announced that it will send Patriot air defense missiles to the United States, marking a significant departure from its pacifist policies. This change in arms export rules could potentially allow the US to send its own stockpile of Patriot missiles to Ukraine, which is facing Russia's invasion. The move comes after the US government reportedly requested Japan to change its defense export rules. Japan's new rules now allow for the shipment of finished goods, rather than just components, to the nation where the manufacturing license originated. This development could mean that Japan-made Patriot missiles may replenish the US' stockpile, while the US sends its own missiles to Ukraine.