Japan to Join NATO Arms Procurement Scheme for Ukraine

Japan is preparing to announce its participation in a NATO-backed assistance program to purchase military equipment from the United States for delivery to Ukraine, according to Japan’s public broadcaster NHK.

Under the planned arrangement, Japan will supply only non-lethal equipment, including radar systems, protective body armor and other defensive gear. Japanese officials have already informed NATO representatives and Ukrainian authorities of Tokyo’s intentions, the broadcaster reported.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara offered a cautious response when questioned about the reports, stating that there is currently no formal agreement between Japan and NATO on the specific framework mentioned. The comments were widely interpreted as indicating that official arrangements are still being finalized, rather than a denial of Japan’s planned participation.

The NATO procurement program was agreed last July following talks between NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and US President Donald Trump. The initiative allows NATO partners to purchase US-made weapons and equipment for transfer to Ukraine, strengthening Kyiv’s military capabilities.

Around 20 NATO member states have already joined the scheme, along with non-member partners Australia and New Zealand. Japan’s expected entry would mark another step in Tokyo’s expanding security cooperation with Western allies amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.