In an unprecedented act, Japan has sent a Boeing 767 with Ukrainian defense equipment

A Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) KC-767 (military version of a Boeing 767) has landed in Poland with supplies, flak jackets and helmets to aid Ukraine as the country tries to defend itself from Russian forces.

The transport plane left the Komaki Air Base in Aichi Prefecture on Tuesday night. The Japanese army had received the plane before its departure. View photos recorded by NHK.

This is the first time in history that the SDF has provided bulletproof vests to another country. The Japanese government decided to provide non-lethal supplies in response to a request from Ukraine. Items also include heavy winter clothing and emergency food supplies.

Japanese guidelines on the transfer of defense equipment prohibit the supply of items to warring parties. However, the government made it clear that Ukraine does not meet this definition and that the goal is to restore international peace and security.

Japan’s Defense Ministry plans to deliver more equipment and supplies to Ukraine once it is ready. The video below shows the loading of the payload and the salutation before takeoff.