China’s military has accused Japan of escalating a potential space arms race, intensifying a month-long exchange of sharp rhetoric between Beijing and Tokyo, according to articles published in the PLA Daily. Chinese military researchers claimed Japan is moving to militarize space in ways that undermine regional and global security.
The criticism follows Japan’s recent efforts to strengthen its space defenses, including new guidelines to protect satellites and plans to expand its Space Operations Group into a full Air and Space Self-Defense Force by 2027.
#FMsays Regarding Japanese Defense Ministry's plan to deploy a mobile radar system in Okinawa prefecture to monitor Chinese aircraft carriers and aircraft, the Foreign Ministry said Japan is spying on its neighbors, and it asked whether Tokyo is creating troubles and engaging in… pic.twitter.com/PgzMWSs4a6
— China Daily (@ChinaDaily) December 18, 2025
Japanese officials say the steps respond to growing threats from China and Russia and are aimed at safeguarding civilian and military systems.
Beijing also criticized Japan’s plan to create a national intelligence bureau, arguing it would support military expansion and weaken regional trust.
The dispute has escalated since Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan’s survival.
China has responded with travel warnings and canceled exchanges, while Japan plans to deploy missiles closer to Taiwan.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
