Tokyo, Dec 7, 2025: Japan has accused Chinese fighter jets of aiming radar at Japanese military aircraft in two “dangerous” incidents near the Okinawa islands, marking one of the most serious military encounters between the two nations in years. Beijing, however, has disputed the claims, saying Japanese planes disrupted Chinese drills.
Radar Lock Sparks Diplomatic Protest
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the radar illuminations as “beyond what is necessary for safe flight” and lodged a formal protest with China. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Japan would respond “resolutely and calmly” to ensure regional peace and stability.
According to Beijing, the Japanese aircraft repeatedly approached and interfered with Chinese carrier-based flight exercises east of the Miyako Strait. Chinese navy spokesperson Colonel Wang Xuemeng demanded Japan cease what Beijing called “slandering and smearing” and pledged to safeguard China’s security.
Tensions Rooted in Taiwan and Territorial Disputes
The incidents come amid rising friction over Taiwan, which China claims as part of its territory. Japan has warned it may act if Chinese military activity near Taiwan threatens Japanese security. Taiwan lies just 110 km (70 miles) from Japan’s westernmost island, Yonaguni, heightening regional sensitivities.
Relations have also been strained by China’s advisory against travel to Japan and the suspension of seafood imports, linked to Japan’s handling of treated Fukushima water.
International Reactions and U.S. Involvement
Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles expressed deep concern over China’s actions, pledging continued support for Japan and adherence to a rules-based order.
U.S. officials have remained largely silent on the latest incidents. Ambassador George Glass publicly backed Japan, while President Donald Trump has not commented directly, though his administration recently emphasized military preparedness to prevent conflicts over Taiwan and the South China Sea.
Trump reportedly advised Prime Minister Takaichi against escalation following discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who reaffirmed Beijing’s claims over Taiwan.
Operational Details
Japan reported that the Chinese J-15 jets involved were launched from the Liaoning aircraft carrier, accompanied by three missile destroyers. Japanese F-15 fighters were scrambled in response.
Historical incidents underscore the volatility of the East China Sea and Okinawa region:
- 2013: Japan reported Chinese warship radar locked on a Japanese destroyer.
- 2016: Beijing accused Japanese jets of targeting Chinese fighters with radar.
- 2025: Chinese jets flew dangerously close to Japanese patrol aircraft near Okinawa.
Meanwhile, Taiwan continues to monitor Chinese maritime drills near the Taiwan Strait, describing the situation as normal but accusing Beijing of psychological warfare through misleading statements.
China asserts sovereignty over the Taiwan Strait, a critical trade corridor, while the U.S. and Taiwan maintain it is an international waterway.
