Japan Accuses China of ‘Dangerous’ Maneuvers as Carrier Group Conducts Intense Drills Near Okinawa

A Chinese aircraft carrier strike group conducting drills near Japan sparked diplomatic tension over the weekend, with Tokyo accusing Beijing of “dangerous” military behavior after Chinese fighter jets allegedly aimed radar beams at Japanese aircraft monitoring the carrier’s movements.

Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF) reported Monday that the Liaoning carrier and its accompanying vessels sailed into the Pacific Ocean east of the Okinawa Islands, maintaining a high pace of air operations. According to the SDF, aircraft aboard the Liaoning carried out roughly 100 takeoffs and landings over the weekend.

Tokyo lodged a formal protest on Sunday, summoning China’s ambassador, Wu Jianghao, to condemn what it described as “dangerous” and “regrettable” actions by Chinese aircraft. Japan said its jets were illuminated by radar beams — a signal that can indicate an imminent attack and force pilots to take evasive action.

“We will respond calmly but firmly and continue to monitor the movements of Chinese forces in the waters around our country,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said on Monday.

China Rejects Accusations

The Chinese embassy dismissed Tokyo’s claims, insisting that the Japanese aircraft had endangered safety by approaching the Chinese carrier group while it was conducting routine training with three missile destroyers.

“China solemnly demands that Japan stop smearing and slandering, strictly restrain its frontline actions, and prevent similar incidents from happening again,” the embassy said in a statement.

Kihara rejected China’s version of events, saying Japan’s aircraft acted appropriately.

Rising Tensions in the Region

The incidents represent the most serious military run-ins between the two countries in years and come at a time of heightened tensions in East Asia. Relations have become increasingly strained after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that Tokyo could respond to any Chinese action against Taiwan that threatens Japan’s security.

The latest confrontation underscores the risk of rapid escalation as both militaries operate in increasingly close proximity amid rising regional friction.