Japan lodged a formal protest after a Chinese J-15 fighter jet repeatedly locked its radar onto Japanese F-15s near Okinawa, escalating tensions already strained by Tokyo’s recent comments on Taiwan.
Japan said its aircraft kept a safe distance and denied Beijing’s accusation that they interfered with Chinese training flights. Officials called the radar lock “dangerous,” saying it exceeded what is necessary for safe operations.
Japan frustrated at Trump administration’s silence over row with China https://t.co/u1kjbu51gX
— Financial Times (@FT) December 7, 2025
China defended the exercises and accused Japan of “harassment,” warning it would take necessary measures to protect its security.
The incident prompted emergency discussions in Tokyo, where ruling party officials warned of rising security risks and noted the hotline with China may not have been used.
Australia, whose defense chief was in Tokyo, also expressed concern and urged safe, professional conduct.
The episode comes weeks after Japan said it might intervene if China moves against Taiwan, worsening bilateral ties and highlighting rising military risks in the region.
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