The ruling Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner, Komeito, are likely to propose discussions for exporting a next-generation fighter jet that Japan will jointly develop with Britain and Italy.
The two parties are discussing a proposed easing of self-imposed restrictions on transfers of defense equipment and technology to other countries. On Friday, working-level members of the two parties agreed to release a report on the matter Wednesday, with the goal of including the proposal in the report.
The report is expected to say that there should be discussions to allow exports of defense equipment jointly developed with other nations to third countries, with the envisioned fighter jet in mind.
Under its current guidelines, Japan can export defense equipment related to any of the five categories of rescue, transportation, vigilance, surveillance and minesweeping, and only to countries that contribute to its own national security.
In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the report is expected to say that Japan should consider allowing exports to nations being invaded by others in violation of international law.
The LDP wants to scrap all five categories to open the way for exporting lethal equipment. Komeito argues, however, that any change in the guidelines should be limited to adding, if necessary, other categories such as land mine removal and education training.
The report is expected to include both opinions on this issue.
Late last year, the government pledged to review the guidelines to expand defense equipment exports under the revised National Security Strategy.
As gaps remain between LDP and Komeito, they decided to reach a conclusion on the matter no earlier than autumn.