Japan will finance purchase of equipment for Ukraine through NATO mechanism - what is known

Japan plans to join NATO's initiative to supply Ukraine with American-made ammunition and equipment and will finance the purchase of non-lethal equipment for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. This is reported by the Japanese public broadcaster NHK, citing sources.

According to the broadcaster, several NATO representatives confirmed that Tokyo will soon officially announce its accession to the PURL initiative. Under this mechanism, Japan will participate in financing supplies to Ukraine, but only non-lethal defense equipment and supplies.

This includes possible purchases of radar systems and bulletproof vests. According to NHK, the Japanese side has already informed several NATO member states and Ukraine about its plans.

One of the Alliance's representatives emphasized in a comment for the broadcaster: "even non-lethal equipment is essential for Ukraine," adding that Japan's participation in the initiative is a"significant development."

The PURL Initiative is a joint US-NATO program launched in 2025 to accelerate the delivery of critical US-made weapons and equipment to Ukraine. Partner countries finance purchases based on Ukraine's priority list of needs through a special NATO fund. The mechanism allows Ukraine to quickly receive the necessary equipment directly from US warehouses, including anti-aircraft missiles for Patriot air defense systems.

At the end of last year, Japan has already provided financial assistance to Ukraine in the amount of JPY 8.8 billion (about EUR 47.7 million) under the fourth phase of the Emergency Recovery Program and agreed to launch the next phase of grant support.

Recall that Zelenskyy reported that missiles for NASAMS and Patriot were late due to Europe's late payment under the PURL program.

Zelenskyy at the meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chiefad admitted that the PURL program was not filled in January and called on diplomats to work.