Japan Scrambles Jets as Russian, Chinese Forces Conduct Patrols

Japan’s Defense Ministry has confirmed that it scrambled fighter jets to monitor joint patrols conducted by the Russian and Chinese air forces. The operation involved two Russian Tu-95 nuclear-capable strategic bombers and two Chinese H-6 bombers, which executed a long-distance flight in the Pacific Ocean. Additionally, four Chinese J-16 fighter jets participated, making a round trip between Japan’s Okinawa and Miyako islands. Notably, the Miyako Strait, where this operation occurred, is recognized as international waters.

Simultaneously, Japan detected Russian military activity in the Sea of Japan, which included an A-50 early-warning aircraft and two Su-30 fighter jets. Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi expressed concerns via social media, stating that these operations were clearly intended as a show of force directed at Japan and that they pose a serious concern for national security.

According to Russian news agencies, the joint flight conducted by the Russian and Chinese forces lasted for eight hours. In a related development, South Korea’s military reported that on March 5, 2024, seven Russian aircraft and two Chinese planes entered its air defense identification zone. This escalation follows Japan’s accusations that China targeted Japanese military aircraft with radar systems deployed by carrier-launched fighter jets, a claim that Beijing has since disputed.

The increasing military maneuvers from Beijing come in the wake of statements made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month, where she indicated that Tokyo might respond to any military actions by China regarding Taiwan, an issue that directly threatens Japan’s security.

Growing Military Cooperation Between China and Russia

In recent years, China and Russia have significantly bolstered their military cooperation. This includes joint anti-missile training conducted on Russian territory and live-fire naval exercises in the South China Sea. The ongoing collaboration between these two nations raises alarms in neighboring countries, particularly Japan and South Korea, who view these actions as a direct challenge to regional stability.

As tensions continue to escalate in East Asia, the implications of these military exercises could have far-reaching effects on diplomatic relations and security in the region. Both Japan and South Korea remain vigilant in their monitoring efforts, as they seek to ensure their national security amid increasing military activities from both Russia and China.