Japan and China trade blame after jets square off over Pacific

The two nations have been at odds since Tokyo stated it could get militarily involved in the Taiwan issue

Tokyo and Beijing have exchanged accusations after their fighter jets had at least two close calls amid Chinese naval drills.

Japan was the first to report the incident, stating that Chinese J-15 fighter jets locked their fire control radars on Japanese F-15J warplanes on at least two occasions on Saturday. The confrontation occurred over international waters to the southeast of Okinawa, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.

“These radar illuminations are a dangerous act that went beyond what is necessary for the safe flight of aircraft,” Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters on Sunday, adding that Tokyo had already lodged a complaint over what she called “extremely regrettable” actions.

Beijing has rejected the allegations, stating that Japanese aircraft repeatedly approached and harassed the Chinese Navy while it was conducting previously announced carrier exercises in the area. 

“We solemnly demand that the Japanese side immediately stop slandering and smearing and strictly restrain front-line actions,” Chinese Navy spokesperson Colonel Wang Xuemeng said. He cautioned that China would “take necessary measures… to resolutely safeguard its own security and legitimate rights and interests.” 

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The ties between Beijing and Tokyo entered a downward spiral after Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister and a hardline conservative, entered office in late October. She claimed that any attempt by Beijing to use force to reunify with self-governing Taiwan could constitute a “survival-threatening situation,” meriting a military response under Japanese law. That has sparked Chinese accusations of interference in internal matters.

Beijing further condemned her statements as “extremely malicious” and “blatantly provocative,” saying they violate the One-China principle that recognizes Taiwan as an integral part of the country. The Taiwan issue is a Chinese internal affair, and any attempt by Japan to intervene would constitute “an act of aggression” and prompt forceful retaliation, Beijing warned.

Taiwan has maintained de facto self-rule since 1949, yet never declared independence. China has repeatedly stated its ultimate goal is “peaceful reunification” but said it would not hesitate to use force should the island opt to break away officially.