Japan has accused a Chinese military intelligence-gathering aircraft of entering its territorial airspace off remote islands in the East China Sea. This marks the first time Tokyo has leveled such an accusation against the People’s Liberation Army Air Force, adding a new layer of tension to the already strained relations between China and Japan.
The incident occurred when a Y-9 reconnaissance plane from China flew in a rectangular circuit pattern off the eastern side of the Danjo Islands. The aircraft briefly crossed into the islands’ territorial airspace, which extends 12 nautical miles from the coast, for about two minutes. The Japanese Defense Ministry confirmed the intrusion and scrambled Air Self-Defense Force fighter jets in response, although no confrontation took place.
Japan’s Foreign Ministry summoned a Chinese Embassy official to protest the violation and demand prevention of future occurrences. This incident comes amidst a backdrop of increasing Chinese military activities near Japan, with Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi labeling the airspace breach as a serious threat to Japan’s sovereignty and safety.
While the Danjo Islands incident is the first reported violation by a Chinese military aircraft, similar occurrences have taken place near the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands in the past. The Senkaku chain, a longstanding point of contention between Japan and China, has seen tensions escalate over territorial claims, with both nations asserting their rights over the disputed area.
Analysts warn that any escalation in the Senkakus could pose a risk of broader conflict, given Japan’s mutual defense treaty with the United States. Washington has reiterated its support for Japan in the territorial dispute, emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability in the region.
