The Japanese Defense Forces (JDF) sent bullet-proof vests to Ukraine, Tuesday (8/3), to counter Russian aggression. This move is considered surprising because Japan had to implement a constitution or anti-war pacifist law after World War II.
In the constitution, Article 9 states that Japan rejects war and will only use force to settle international disputes. Japan also prohibits its country from using war to maintain military power, quoted from the Straits Times.
However, the Japanese Ministry of Defense stated that the guidelines prohibiting the transfer of weapons from Japan to conflict camps had been updated.
This update allows the country to send military equipment arranged by Japan's Ministry of Defense to Ukraine, as reported by CNN. This is the first time Japan has sent bulletproof vests overseas.
According to a statement by the Japanese Ministry of Defense on Twitter, the vest was sent by a Japanese military aircraft that departed from Komaki Base in Aichi prefecture, Tuesday (8/3). This delivery was made after the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense asked Toko for help on Friday (4/3).
Japan also plans to send emergency supplies, such as food, cleaning products, cameras, power generators, tents and winter clothing to Ukraine.
Previously, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Hirokazu Matsuno, stated it was important for Japan and its national security to firmly respond to Russia's aggression and provide assistance to Ukraine.