Chinese Jets Lock Radar on Japanese Aircraft, Prompting Protest
Recent incidents in international waters near Okinawa have heightened tensions between Japan and China. According too Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, Chinese military fighter jets directed missile-guiding radar at Japanese aircraft in two seperate instances. tokyo has formally protested the actions to Chinese authorities, characterizing them as dangerous and provocative.
The targeting of radar, which emits signals to pinpoint a target’s location for missile guidance, is considered a serious escalation as it suggests a potential imminent attack. Koizumi stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the radar pulses emitted “exceeded the limits of what is necessary for the safe operation of aircraft.”
China’s navy has refuted japan’s claims, asserting that Japanese aircraft repeatedly interfered with ongoing Chinese naval exercises in the area.
This incident occurs amidst a period of already strained relations.Tensions escalated earlier this month when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger Japan’s right to collective self-defense. This statement drew a harsh response from China, including a threat against the Prime Minister from a Chinese consul general, prompting further protests from Tokyo. Beijing also protested, warning of a “crushing” defeat for Japan should it intervene in a potential conflict over Taiwan.
These events follow other recent encounters, including the appearance of a Chinese drone near the Japanese island of Jonaguni and the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels near the Senkaku Islands, which are claimed by both countries.
China maintains its claim that Taiwan is a renegade province and part of its territory, while Taiwan has maintained de facto independence since 1949 with its own democratically elected government.China regularly conducts military exercises near Taiwan, increasing pressure on the island.
