The Philippines has emerged as the clearest example of what observers say is Japan’s shift towards a more active defence role abroad, with both countries deepening their military cooperation in areas ranging from joint drills to technological partnerships.

Japanese forces are taking part for the first time in this year’s Balikatan military exercises hosted by the Philippines, while bilateral cooperation is set to expand after Tokyo eased its defence export rules on Tuesday.

These activities signal the Philippines’ special position among Japan’s security partners and can help boost Manila’s efforts to counter Beijing, according to analysts.

With Tokyo’s removal of its long-standing curbs on arms exports, Japan could potentially sell lethal weapons ranging from warships to missiles to countries including the Philippines, as it further loosens the post-war constraints that have long limited its security role abroad.

Philippine defence chief Gilberto Teodoro Jnr said in a statement that Tokyo’s move could allow Manila to gain access to “defence articles of the highest quality”, boost domestic resilience and contribute to regional stability through deterrence.

Alessio Patalano, Professor of War & Strategy in East Asia at the Department of War Studies in King’s College London, said countries like the Philippines could acquire defence equipment from Japan that was previously impossible. For instance, Manila could potentially acquire Japan’s soon-to-be-scrapped Abukama class destroyer escort, he added.