The Japanese government accused Chinese fighter pilots of having illuminated Japanese military aircraft with radar on two separate occasions in the Okinawa region, classifying the episodes as dangerous and “extremely regrettable”. The radar illumination is interpreted in Tokyo as a sign of preparation for a possible attack, and Japan has lodged a formal protest with Beijing. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi publicly condemned the actions, while Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi promised a “resolute and calm” response, Reuters reported this Sunday (7).
Beijing maintains that Japanese planes interfered with aviation training on a ship east of the Miyako Strait and accuses Japan of defamation and endangering security.
Australia expressed “deep concern” and support for Tokyo, and representatives from the United States adopted a measured tone, although the ambassador to Japan expressed solidarity. The presence of US military installations in Okinawa increases the sensitivity of the case, as Reuters describes.
In a context of deteriorating Sino-Japanese relations, fueled by Tokyo’s statements on Taiwan and more frequent Chinese exercises and patrols in the Western Pacific, authorities and analysts warn of the risk of escalation and defend more robust rules of engagement and communication channels.
Tension in the Pacific is increasing and these episodes are seen as the most serious between Chinese and Japanese forces in years.