TOKYO - Japan has exported domestically produced Patriot surface-to-air missile interceptors to the United States for the first time under eased restrictions, sources familiar with the matter said on Nov 17.

The export of the missiles in the Air Self-Defence Force’s possession was made at the request of the United States, so that Washington could replenish its own stockpile as it provides military support to Ukraine amid Kyiv’s ongoing war with Russia, the sources said.