Japan Scrambles Jets After Chinese Aircraft Violates Airspace, Escalating Regional Tensions

Japan scrambled fighter jets on Monday after a Chinese Y-9 surveillance aircraft “violated” its airspace, further heightening regional tensions. The two-minute incursion, which occurred at 11:29 a.m. near the Danjo Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, marked the first time a Chinese military plane has entered Japanese airspace, according to local reports.

The Japanese defense ministry responded swiftly, deploying fighter jets on an emergency basis and issuing warnings to the aircraft. Although no weapons were used as alerts, the incident prompted a strong diplomatic response. Deputy Foreign Minister Masataka Okano summoned China’s acting ambassador to lodge a firm protest and demanded measures to prevent a recurrence. The Chinese diplomat indicated that the matter would be reported to Beijing, though no official comment has been made by China.

The incident also comes at a time when the U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to visit Beijing, seeking to manage escalating bilateral tensions.

The Danjo Islands, where the incursion occurred, are located in the East China Sea, an area that has seen increasing tension between Japan and China. This region has been the site of numerous confrontations, particularly around the disputed Senkaku Islands.

The incident also comes at a time when the U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to visit Beijing, seeking to manage escalating bilateral tensions.