Japan Raises Concerns After Close Encounter with Chinese Fighter Jet

In a significant escalation of tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, Japan’s Defense Ministry has lodged a formal complaint with Beijing following a close encounter between a Chinese fighter jet and a Japanese patrol aircraft. The incident occurred on June 10, 2025, when a Chinese J-15 fighter jet tailed a Japanese P-3C patrol aircraft over international waters in the Pacific Ocean, flying as close as 45 meters to the Japanese plane for approximately 40 minutes. This event has raised alarms in Tokyo, particularly as it marks the closest such encounter in over a decade.

The Japanese government, through Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, expressed serious concern over the incident and emphasized the need for measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. "We have expressed serious concern over this incident, and sought measures to prevent a similar incident from happening again," Hayashi stated during a press conference. He refrained from speculating about the intentions of the Chinese military but indicated that Japan would continue to monitor the situation closely.

This incident follows a weekend where China also maneuvered two aircraft carriers, the Shandong and the Liaoning, near remote Japanese islands, further inflaming tensions. According to the Defense Ministry, the close proximity of the Chinese jet—engaging in what they described as an "unusual maneuver"—is unprecedented since 2014, when similar interactions occurred. In those instances, a Chinese fighter jet approached a Japanese aircraft as closely as 30 meters.

Experts have noted that the increasing assertiveness of China in the region poses a significant challenge to Japan’s national security. Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, a political science professor at Tokyo University, remarked that "China’s military activities are becoming more aggressive, and this incident is a clear demonstration of their intent to assert dominance over regional airspace."

Internationally, the implications of such military encounters are profound. The Asian region has seen a rise in military activities among major powers, which has raised concerns about potential miscalculations leading to conflict. According to a recent report by the Asia-Pacific Security Institute, the frequency of military incidents in the region has increased by 40% over the past five years, with naval and aerial confrontations becoming more common.

While Japan has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, the government faces mounting pressure to enhance its defensive capabilities. In light of this incident, there are calls within Japan’s political circles to review its defense strategy, potentially increasing military spending and strengthening alliances with Western countries.

The future of Japan-China relations remains uncertain. As both nations navigate this complex landscape, the need for diplomatic engagement remains critical. The Japanese government is expected to continue its policy of vigilance while seeking dialogue to mitigate tensions. The international community, particularly the United States, has expressed support for Japan’s right to defend its airspace and has urged restraint on all sides to prevent escalation into conflict.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region and the ongoing challenges that Japan faces in securing its national interests amidst rising regional tensions.