Japan considers exporting used warships to Philippines

May 6 (Asia Today) -- Japan has begun formal discussions with the Philippines on exporting used naval destroyer escorts, a move that could mark its first transfer of lethal military equipment under newly relaxed export rules.

According to Japanese media reports, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro in Manila on Monday and agreed to establish a working-level body to advance talks on the potential transfer.

The discussions focus on decommissioned Abukuma-class destroyer escort vessels operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. These ships, in service for more than 30 years, are equipped with anti-ship missiles and other weapons. Japan plans to retire six such vessels in phases.

The talks follow Japan's decision in April to revise its arms export policy by removing restrictions that had limited defense equipment transfers to non-lethal categories such as rescue, transport and surveillance. The change now allows, in principle, the export of systems with combat capabilities.

Koizumi said security cooperation between Japan and the Philippines has become increasingly important amid a "more complex and tense" international environment. Teodoro expressed support for Japan's policy shift, saying both countries share responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

The Philippines has shown interest in acquiring the vessels to strengthen its naval capabilities, though legal hurdles remain. Under current Japanese law, surplus defense equipment can be transferred to developing countries at low or no cost, but lethal systems such as warships are excluded. Tokyo is considering legislative changes to enable such transfers, potentially as early as next year.

In a joint statement, Japan and the Philippines voiced "serious concern" over China's activities in waters near Japan and in the South China Sea. They also reaffirmed opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force in the East China Sea and South China Sea.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also met Koizumi and welcomed Japan's policy revision. Japanese media said a successful agreement could elevate bilateral security ties to a quasi-alliance level, amid broader coordination with the United States, Australia and Southeast Asian partners.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 6:33 PM.