As tensions in the Asia‑Pacific continue to escalate, Japan has lodged a formal protest following a startling close encounter between a Chinese fighter jet and a Japanese military patrol plane over international waters.
Dangerous Proximity Over Pacific Waters
Over the weekend of June 7–8, a Shandong‑launched Chinese J‑15 fighter jet approached within just 45 meters (150 feet) of a Japanese P‑3C patrol aircraft—a near miss that lasted some 40 minutes, according to Japan’s Defense Ministry.
On the following day, another J‑15 crossed in front of the Japanese plane at an altitude matched with roughly 900 meters separation, prompting alarm from Tokyo.
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi firmly warned that such “abnormal approaches” could easily lead to accidental collisions and urged China to strictly avoid repetition.
First Dual Carrier Drills in Western Pacific
These tense aerial encounters coincided with the first-ever deployment of two Chinese aircraft carriers—the Shandong and Liaoning—simultaneously operating east of the Second Island Chain in the Western Pacific.
China defended the exercises as lawful, characterizing them as standard training operations, while accusing Japan of “dangerous behaviour” by tailing its aircraft during what Beijing calls “normal military activities”.
Regional Security Concerns Intensify
Japan, joined by regional allies including Australia, the Philippines, and the U.S., expressed alarm over Beijing’s increasingly assertive maritime and aerial mode of operation.
Underlying tensions over Taiwan loom large, and analysts say these provocative drills aim to stretch China’s naval reach deep into the Pacific—and signal a display of power well beyond China’s immediate periphery .
Diplomatic Backlash and Military Readiness
Tokyo has lodged formal diplomatic protests and has stepped up air patrols and surveillance over its Exclusive Economic Zone. Japan’s Defence Minister Gen Nakatani emphasized that China seeks to enhance its carriers’ long‑range operational capability.
In response to the incident, Tokyo plans to further bolster its missile defence systems and coordination with U.S. forces to ensure safe airspace and deter future close encounters.
Looking Ahead: Risk of Miscalculation
While no collision or injuries occurred, the near miss underscores escalating geopolitical friction in Asia’s skies.
Defence analysts warn the incident reveals growing confidence—or aggression—by China’s military, affirming that oversight and restraint will depend on vigilant operational protocols, stronger defense postures, and improved bilateral communication to avoid a potential flashpoint in the Pacific.
