STORY: Japan is scrapping restrictions on its exports of weapons.
The move marks a big step away from the pacifist restraints that have shaped its postwar security policy.
It's also meant to give a big boost to the country's defense industrial base.
Companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries can build complex weapon systems including submarines, fighter aircraft and missiles.
But for decades they've had to rely on one customer: Japan's Self-Defense Forces.
Now overseas sales could help such companies build revenue, cut costs and boost capacity.
Two Reuters sources say one of the first deals could be the sale of used warships to the Philippines.
Other countries including Poland are also said to be exploring deals.
It all comes as wars in the Middle East and Ukraine strain U.S. weapons production, potentially creating opportunities for Japan to fill the gap.
Allies in Europe and Asia are also looking to diversify their suppliers, amid concerns over the reliability of support from Washington.
The changes approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government retain a commitment to strict screening, controls on transfers to third countries, and a ban on sales to nations involved in conflict.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara set out the changes on Tuesday:
"Today, no country can safeguard its own peace and security on its own. To protect both national and regional peace, it is important to further promote the transfer of defence equipment and strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of allies and like-minded partners."
Japan is already taking steps to bolster its military, increasing its spending and buying missiles, jets and drones to deter any threat from China.
It's also developing a next-generation jet fighter with Britain and Italy for deployment in the mid 2030s.
