Japan and Finland signed a legal framework for transfers of defence equipment and technology during talks in Tokyo. The agreement covers joint research, development and production, with controls on third-party transfers and use beyond agreed purposes. A joint committee will coordinate cooperation. The governments have not yet announced a specific joint production project or financial commitment.
Japan and Finland signed their defence equipment and technology transfer agreement in Tokyo on 26 October. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen signed the document during Häkkänen’s visit. The framework governs equipment and technology exchanged for joint research, development and production involving both governments.[1], [2]
The agreement includes safeguards against unauthorised transfers to third countries and use beyond the purposes the parties agreed. A joint committee will coordinate cooperation and manage initiatives. The signing follows the leaders’ decision in June 2025 to accelerate negotiations on the framework. The governments have not yet announced a specific joint production project or financial commitment under it.[2]
Motegi and Häkkänen discussed bilateral relations and regional affairs after the signing, agreeing to continue close coordination. Motegi described Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security as inseparable and Finland as a strategic partner. Häkkänen separately met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on the same day; they welcomed the agreement and agreed to deepen defence cooperation and exchanges.[1], [2]
