Japan accused Chinese fighter jets of directing fire-control radar at Japanese aircraft near Okinawa on Saturday. The radar confrontation quickly raised alarms in Tokyo and added renewed pressure to already strained regional relations.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the Chinese actions went beyond what is acceptable in international aviation. Furthermore, he described the incident as regrettable and warned that Japan would respond firmly but calmly. He also emphasized that a radar confrontation should never become routine behavior in contested airspace.
According to Japanese defense officials, the incident involved Chinese J-15 jets launched from the Liaoning aircraft carrier. In response, Japan scrambled F-15 fighters to observe the situation and collect data. Additionally, Japanese forces reported the carrier maneuvered south of the Okinawa islands during extended naval drills.
However, China rejected the accusations and pushed back strongly. Military spokesperson Colonel Wang Xuemeng claimed Japanese aircraft approached Chinese vessels at unsafe distances. He argued that China acted lawfully and accused Japan of provoking unnecessary tension. As a result, Beijing demanded Japan stop what it called slander and interference.
Meanwhile, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles expressed concern during a meeting in Tokyo. He said China’s recent behavior threatens aviation safety and regional security. Moreover, he reaffirmed that Australia would work closely with Japan to defend the rules-based international order.
Tensions between the two countries have been rising steadily, particularly over Taiwan. Recently, Japan warned it may respond militarily if Chinese action against Taiwan directly threatens Japanese security. Shortly afterward, China increased its military activity around Taiwan and Okinawa, which deepened security concerns.
Diplomatic relations have also deteriorated in other areas. For instance, China paused plans to resume seafood imports from Japan and advised citizens not to travel there following the disposal of treated Fukushima wastewater. Analysts noted these moves added political pressure and signaled a broader strategic shift.
The United States continues to play a central role in the situation. Because it stations thousands of troops and advanced aircraft in Japan, any major escalation could draw Washington further into the dispute.
Taiwan said it monitored additional Chinese maritime drills near the Taiwan Strait median line. Officials argued China used misleading language about its operations and pursued psychological tactics.
Looking ahead, security analysts warned that both governments must strengthen communication channels. They said the radar confrontation highlights growing mistrust and the increasing likelihood of unintended escalation. Japan stated it will continue close surveillance of Chinese activity while preparing for additional incidents.
