Japan’s Defense Minister reported that Chinese fighter jets locked their fire-control radars onto Japanese aircraft over international waters on Saturday, near Japan’s Okinawa Islands, in two separate incidents described by the minister as “dangerous.”
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Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated on X (formerly Twitter) that “the radar illumination exceeded what is necessary for safe flight” and added that Japan lodged a protest with China over the “regrettable” incidents.
Fire-control radar lock is considered one of the most threatening actions a military aircraft can take, as it signals a potential attack and forces the targeted plane to take evasive maneuvers.
The incidents are likely to heighten tensions around the islands, which lie near disputed territories claimed by both Japan and China. Relations had already been strained after the Japanese Prime Minister warned that Japan could respond to any Chinese military action against Taiwan if it also threatened Japan’s security.
China’s Ministry of Defense did not respond to calls outside business hours on Sunday. The U.S. State Department also had no immediate comment.
Japan said the Chinese J-15 aircraft involved on Saturday took off from the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning, which was conducting exercises south of Okinawa alongside three missile destroyers.
Reuters sources and intelligence reports indicate that China deployed a large number of naval and coast guard vessels in East Asian waters on Thursday, exceeding 100 ships at one point. Taiwan described the deployment as a threat to the Indo-Pacific region. Japan confirmed it is closely monitoring Chinese activity.
