The Japanese government plans to officially join the NATO PURL mechanism, designed to procure American weapons and equipment for the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Tokyo will focus on financing non-lethal defensive equipment, such as radar systems and bulletproof vests, which will be a significant expansion of support for Ukraine from a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region. This was reported by the NHK television channel, writes UNN.
Details
The PURL mechanism was created in July 2025 by the US and NATO in response to changing formats of military assistance. The program allows partner countries to finance the purchase of American weapons (Patriot missiles, HIMARS, and ammunition) according to an agreed list of Ukraine's priority needs. According to NHK, Japan has already informed its Alliance partners of its intention to join the initiative, becoming another non-NATO country, after Australia and New Zealand, to take such a step.
The official announcement is expected soon.
Even non-lethal equipment is essential for Ukraine
He added that Japan's participation is a significant political and logistical signal. As Japanese law restricts the export of lethal weapons, Tokyo's financial contribution will be directed towards high-tech equipment, including radar systems, which are critically needed to strengthen Ukrainian air defense.
Program effectiveness and international coordination
As of February 2026, more than 20 countries have already joined the PURL program, and the total amount of commitments has exceeded $4 billion. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during a recent visit to Kyiv, announced that thanks to this mechanism, 90% of all missiles for Ukrainian air defense have been provided since last summer. The program operates on the principle of monthly funding packages, each estimated at approximately $1 billion, which allows the US to promptly ship equipment from its warehouses.
Tokyo's participation in PURL will not only provide the Armed Forces of Ukraine with the necessary equipment but also strengthen ties between democratic countries in Asia and Europe in confronting global aggression.