Escalation of Japan-China Maritime Conflict; JASDF Aircraft Targeted by Naval Radar

In December 2025, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force stated that its aircraft were targeted by fire-control radar from Chinese Navy shipborne aircraft over the waters southeast of Okinawa. The Japanese government filed a serious protest, considering the action highly provocative and endangering flight safety. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the legality of its maritime exercises and demanded Japan stop monitoring and interference, with relations cooling again due to maritime standoffs and historical issues.