Daikin to stop making white phosphorus shells under investor pressure

Some European funds avoid companies with significant defense-related sales

20250226N SDF white phosphorus

Japan's Self-Defense Forces use white phosphorus rounds to create smoke screens during exercises. © Kyodo

KENTARO TSUTSUMI

TOKYO -- Japanese air conditioner giant Daikin Industries will stop manufacturing white phosphorus rounds for the Japan Self-Defense Forces, amid pressure from investors over humanitarian concerns about the smoke-producing munitions.

White phosphorus rounds trigger a reaction between chemicals they carry and the air to create smoke screens. The SDF uses them in exercises.

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