Takeya expresses ire over lack of public accountability over weapons export decision

April 22 , 2026

Meeting with the press on April 21, Komeito Chief Representative Toshiko Takeya spoke out against the decision by the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her National Security Council (NSC) to revise the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology. The decision essentially removed the so-called “five categories” established to bar exports for combat purposes, opening the way to overseas sales of warplanes and warships. Takeya expressed indignation that the prime minister and defense minister never explained their rationale behind the move, which she said was made unilaterally without proper Diet discussion. Komeito is insisting that legislative oversight be instituted over any NSC ruling on arms exports going forward and retain the right to veto by making the necessary legal revisions.