Japan considering missile exports to PH — report

Japan is considering exporting its Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles to the Philippines as Tokyo expands its defense export policy and strengthens regional security ties amid rising tensions in Asia. The move follows recent joint military exercises and ongoing talks on transferring additional Japanese defense equipment to Manila.

Satoshi Sugiyama and Kaori Kaneko/Reuters

May 15, 2026

Japan considering missile exports to PH — report

A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) Type 88 surface-to-ship missile launcher fires during the Joint Task Force (JTF) Maritime Strike, part of Balikatan, the annual joint military exercises between the United States and the Philippines, at Culili Point Sand Dunes, Paoay, Ilocos Norte province, Philippines, May 6, 2026.

Noel Celis/Reuters

Japan's defence ministry is considering exports of Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles to the Philippines, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported on Friday.

Japan unveiled its biggest overhaul of defence export rules in decades last month, scrapping restrictions on overseas arms sales and opening the way for exports of warships, missiles and other weapons.

Japan wants to deepen ties with other Asian nations to counter China's growing influence, while strengthening Japan's industrial base in defence.

The Japan and Philippines defence ministries did not immediately respond to a request from Reuters for comment.

Japan's Self-Defense Forces fired a Type 88 anti‑ship missile during a ‌joint maritime exercise with U.S., Australian, and Philippine forces earlier this month, as Manila and Tokyo began talks on a potential defence equipment transfer.

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said during a visit to Manila this month that Japan was eyeing the early transfer of Abukuma class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft to the Philippines.

-Satoshi Sugiyama and Kaori Kaneko/Reuters