Japan plans to supply 155mm shells to United Kingdom.

The Japanese government plans to supply 155mm artillery shells to the United Kingdom. This initiative is part of Japan's export requirements and strengthens collaboration in the defense sector. This delivery of shells could be indirect aid to Ukraine.
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According to a report from the Financial Times, the Japanese government has decided to provide 155mm artillery shells to the United Kingdom. (Picture source: US DoD)

According to a report from the Financial Times, the Japanese government has decided to provide 155mm artillery shells to the United Kingdom. It is important to note that this transfer complies with Japan's "three Principles" export conditions, adopted in 2014, which serve as a framework for responsible arms exports.

It is worth noting that the cooperation between Japan and the United Kingdom in this endeavor goes beyond their interests. Both countries share the common goal of assisting Ukraine by providing it with weapons and ammunition. As a result, Japan intends to supply its artillery ammunition to the United Kingdom, which will then transfer it to Ukraine, contributing to the defense efforts of the country.

A total of 24 Japanese companies are actively involved in the production of artillery shells. They manufacture British 155mm L15A1 projectiles designed for various military platforms, including Type 99 self-propelled howitzers, Type 19 wheeled self-propelled howitzers, and FH-70 towed howitzers.

This development also stems from a request by the United States to the Japanese government to repurchase PAC-2 and PAC-3 missiles used in the Patriot air defense system. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is the only foreign manufacturer of these types of missiles. Japanese companies also produce a comprehensive range of missile components, enabling a degree of self-sufficiency in missile production.

Japan's involvement in international defense collaboration goes beyond the export of artillery ammunition. Earlier, Japan fulfilled its first export order by producing and delivering FPS-3ME air surveillance radars to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Additionally, Japan and Indonesia have undertaken a joint project to construct a large patrol vessel for the Indonesian Coast Guard. As part of this initiative, Japan is providing $5.6 million in grant aid to Indonesia to enhance maritime security capabilities. The construction of the patrol vessel will be carried out by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a company renowned for its expertise in building various classes of surface patrol vessels, including those for the Japanese Coast Guard.