Japan’s Ministry of Defense said that on December 6, 2025, Chinese Navy J-15 fighters launched from the aircraft carrier Liaoning intermittently illuminated Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-15 fighters with fire-control radar during two encounters over international waters southeast of Okinawa.
According to Tokyo, the first incident occurred between 16:32 and 16:35 local time, when a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) J-15 directed radar emissions at an F-15 conducting airspace monitoring and interception duties. A second encounter followed between 18:37 and 19:08, involving a different JASDF F-15 responding to renewed Chinese flight activity.
Japanese officials described the radar illumination as a dangerous act that exceeded what is required for safe flight operations and increased the risk of unintended escalation. Fire-control radar lock-ons are typically considered hostile signals because they simulate a targeting action for potential missile strikes.
Japan lodged a strong diplomatic protest and demanded preventive measures. No damage or injuries were reported.
China denies allegations, blames Japanese interference
Beijing rejected Japan’s account. The People’s Liberation Army Navy said the Liaoning carrier group was conducting previously announced flight training east of the Miyako Strait and accused Japanese aircraft of repeatedly approaching and disrupting the exercise, endangering flight safety.
China’s Ministry of National Defense doubled down on that position, accusing Japan of “maliciously following and harassing” the carrier group and falsely portraying China’s actions. Beijing said its operations complied with international law and warned it would take “necessary measures” to protect its security and legitimate rights.
Increasing pressure around Taiwan
Relations between Beijing and Tokyo have become increasingly strained since Japan’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, suggested on November 7, 2025, that Japan could intervene militarily in the event of an attack on Taiwan. She emphasized that Taiwan’s security is closely linked to Japan’s own national defense.
The episode comes amid growing Chinese military pressure across the region, including toward South Korea, and the Philippines. Chinese warship deployments closer to critical sea lanes, including areas near the Strait of Malacca, have also drawn attention due to their implications for freedom of navigation and energy security in the region.
