On November 28, China’s Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged the UK to follow the “one-China” principle and help “safeguard the achievements of World War II” during a meeting with a British prime minister’s aide. 

Amid its response to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks on a Taiwan contingency, China is stepping up diplomatic efforts to win Western support. On November 27, Wang told the French president’s diplomatic adviser that “Japan’s current leader made provocative remarks concerning Taiwan,” and in a November 24 call with U.S. President Donald Trump, President Xi Jinping reiterated that “Taiwan’s return to China is an important part of the post-war international order.”

Sankei Shimbun News (Japanese) 

At a Japanese character-themed event in Shanghai on November 28, a Japanese singer was suddenly forced to stop their performance mid-song when the lights and sound were abruptly cut. The organizing company subsequently canceled the event. The singer's official website stated that “due to unavoidable circumstances, the performance had to be abruptly halted.” Amid intensifying friction between Japan and China, Japanese-related events, such as music performances in China, have been repeatedly canceled, signaling a full-scale effort to exclude Japanese cultural content. 

Jiji Press News (Japanese)  

China, reacting to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on a Taiwan contingency, is courting South Korea, which has historical and territorial disputes with Japan. When the Speaker of South Korea’s National Assembly criticized Japan over Takeshima and historical issues, the Chinese Embassy in Japan posted its Japanese and Chinese translations on social media. On November 17, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson criticized the new facility of Japan’s “National Museum of Territory and Sovereignty,” which presents the government’s positions on issues such as Takeshima, saying that “Japan's malicious words and actions are provoking vigilance and protests from neighboring countries,” signaling support for South Korea, which has lodged a protest. The aim is to co-opt the Lee Jae-myung administration, undermine Japan-U.S.-South Korea cooperation, and isolate Japan. 

Meanwhile, the Lee administration, while prioritizing the U.S.–South Korea alliance and Japan–U.S.–South Korea cooperation, remains cautious about a “China–South Korea alliance.” Although President Lee once asked, “What does the Taiwan issue have to do with South Korea?” — drawing accusations of being “pro-China” — he has, since taking office, pursued “pragmatic diplomacy,” valuing functional ties with China but placing far greater weight on cooperation among Japan, the United States, and South Korea. 

Kyodo News (Japanese)   

On November 29, the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) conducted joint training with the Philippine Navy and Air Force in the South China Sea as part of “Maritime Cooperative Activity.” These activities support freedom of navigation and overflight, and respect other maritime rights under international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The JMSDF deployed a destroyer and a patrol helicopter, while the Philippine Armed Forces provided a frigate, helicopters, and small aircraft. The two sides practiced forming and maintaining maritime formations. Japan and the Philippines are strengthening defense cooperation to deter China’s unilateral actions in the region.  

Japan Joint Staff

Sankei Shimbun News (Japanese)  

On December 1, a telephone call was held between Japan’s prime minister and NATO’s secretary general. 

Japan’s prime minister stressed that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific is inseparable and cooperation between Japan-NATO and NATO-IP4 (Japan, Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea) is strategically important. NATO’s secretary general supported this view, and both leaders agreed to further deepen their cooperative relationship through concrete actions. They also exchanged views on regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific, and confirmed continued cooperation in addressing cross-regional security challenges. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

On December 1, Japan's chief cabinet secretary responded to Chinese media editorials questioning Okinawa’s status, saying, “There is absolutely no doubt that Okinawa is Japanese territory.” He added that the government consistently refutes claims contrary to the facts and will continue to communicate its position to ensure accurate understanding in the international community. 

The Global Times, a major Chinese newspaper, published an editorial on November 19 questioning Okinawa’s affiliation with Japan. The article appears to be part of China’s information campaign regarding Okinawa’s history following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks on a Taiwan contingency. 

Mainichi Shimbun News (Japanese)

On December 2, two China Coast Guard vessels entered the territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands and sailed there for about three hours before moving into the contiguous zone. 

According to the JCG, the vessels attempted to approach a Japanese fishing boat while asserting China’s claims. The intrusion of China Coast Guard vessels into Japan’s territorial waters near the Senkaku Islands was the first since November 16 and the 29th such incident this year. Two other Chinese vessels were also confirmed to be in the contiguous zone. 

Kyodo News (Japanese)  

On December 1, China's permanent representative to the UN said that he had sent the document to the UN Secretary-General. This was intended to dispute Japan's reaction to China's first letter which was sent on November 21. His letter demanded the retraction of the Japanese Prime Minister's remark about Taiwan. It adds that such an erroneous remark openly challenges the post-war international order. On December 2, the Chief Cabinet Secretary said that he is aware of the letter. He said Japan's position had been consistent since the security legislation was enacted. 

He said Japan has been repeatedly conveying to China that its assertions about a change in position are untrue.　

NHK World　 

Reference: Japan's position on China's statement against Japan (24 November)    

On December 2, the Chinese Embassy in Japan criticized on social media the San Francisco Peace Treaty, claiming it excluded major Allied victors such as China and the Soviet Union and calling it illegal and invalid. On November 26, Prime Minister Takaichi stated in a Diet session that she maintained the government’s position that Japan is not in a position to take a definitive position on Taiwan's legal status. She noted that, under the 1952 San Francisco Peace Treaty, Japan renounced all rights regarding Taiwan.　

The Japanese government has consistently placed importance on the San Francisco Peace Treaty, which does not explicitly assign the sovereignty or territorial status of Taiwan. In the 1972 Japan-China Joint Communiqué, while China stated that “Taiwan is an inseparable part of the territory of the People’s Republic of China,” Japan did not necessarily accept this stance, limiting its response to stating that it “fully understands and respects” China's position.

Nikkei Shimbun News (Japanese)   

Multiple Japanese government sources say Japan and the Philippines are coordinating on the export of a Japan-made command and control system to the Philippine military. The system integrates radar data on aircraft and vessels and issues instructions to military units. 

Amid tensions with China in the South China Sea, the Philippines aims to use the system to improve situational awareness and respond more quickly to Chinese coast guard harassment. 

Japan, facing similar challenges in the East China Sea, expects the system to enable radar information sharing. With growing pressure from China, the two countries are strengthening quasi-alliance ties to improve their response capabilities in both the East and South China Seas. 

Yomiuri Shimbun News (Japanese)    

On December 2, Chinese Foreign Minister held talks with Russia's Security Council Secretary. 

China's Foreign Ministry said, "The two sides conducted strategic alignment on issues related to Japan, reaching a high degree of consensus." The ministry said the countries agreed to "resolutely counter any attempts to revive fascism or Japanese militarism," and stressed that China and Russia, as permanent UN Security Council members, "will shoulder their shared responsibility." China has condemned Takaichi's comments, citing events from World War II and other incidents. The move is seen as part of an effort to jointly pressure Japan over its leader's remarks on Taiwan.　

NHK World

On December 2, Japan’s secretary general of national security secretariat held a phone conversation with the French President's foreign policy advisor. With China's growing hegemonic actions in the East and South China Seas in mind, they confirmed their policy to promote cooperation toward realizing a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” They also agreed to strengthen bilateral security cooperation. Japanese government officials did not clarify whether the Taiwan issue was raised during the call.  

Sankei Shimbun News (Japanese)    

On December 3, Japan’s vice foreign minister and the U.S. deputy secretary of state held a telephone call.  

The two sides concurred to continue working closely together to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law. They exchanged views on the situation and various challenges in the Indo-Pacific under the current international environment and affirmed their commitment to continued close cooperation. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan   

China has upgraded surveillance and electronic warfare systems across several occupied reefs in the disputed South China Sea to strengthen its defenses and expand intelligence capabilities. On December 2, satellite images reviewed by the Washington-based Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative reveal new radar  sites, antenna fields and other hardened structures on outposts in the Spratly Islands. The report, published on December 2, details the most extensive changes in the past two years at Mischief, Subi and Fiery Cross reefs, where China has added new antenna arrays and reinforced older installations. The upgrades are part of Beijing's effort to reinforce outposts despite ongoing territorial disputes with other claimants, and also include support facilities for equipment with more kinetic potential, such as offensive weapons capabilities. 

“These upgrades underscore the fact that a major function of China’s bases is to provide unparalleled intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance coverage of the South China Sea,” the report says. They serve to support coast guard and navy operations, while allowing Beijing “to contest the use of the electromagnetic spectrum by others in the event of a conflict.” Though the bulk of China’s recent upgrades focus on electromagnetic spectrum, “Beijing is also investing in support facilities for equipment with more kinetic potential,” the AMTI report said, referring to offensive weapons capabilities. Earth-fortified emplacements built along the western and northern edges of Mischief Reef over the course of 2023 often sit empty, but “the positions are likely capable of accommodating a wide variety of road-mobile weapons platforms, including artillery guns or rockets.” 

Bloomberg 

On December 3, China’s Foreign Minister met with the French Foreign Minister. According to China's Foreign Ministry, China’s Foreign Minister raised “the nature and serious harm of the incorrect remarks on Taiwan made by Japan’s current leaders.” He emphasized that “we will never allow Japan to stir up trouble by exploiting the Taiwan issue and repeat the mistakes of history,” seeking understanding and support for China’s position.  

Mainichi Shimbun News (Japanese)   

On December 4, Japan-Viet Nam foreign and defense vice-ministers’ consultation ("2+2") was held. 

Both sides confirmed their commitment to concretizing advancing cooperation in security. They held extensive discussions on their respective foreign and security policies, regional situations including the East China Sea, South China Sea. They confirmed the importance of realizing a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” based on the rule of law, amid a regional security environment growing increasingly severe and complex. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan   

On December 4, a meeting was held between Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Greece’s Defense Minister.  

As Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security has become increasingly inseparable, the two sides confirmed that Japan and Greece, as maritime nations and strategic partners, share the goal of promoting a free and open international order based on the rule of law, and concurred to strengthen their cooperation bilaterally and in the international arena. They affirmed the continued deepening of Japan-Greece cooperation in the fields of security and defense, in light of the current severe international situation. They exchanged views on the regional situations, including in East Asia. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan    

On December 4, China’s President met with France’s President. China’s Foreign Ministry said President Xi called for “mutual understanding and support for each other's core interests and major concerns.” The remarks were widely understood as referring to Taiwan, which China considers a “core interest.” Beijing continues to argue that “Taiwan’s return to China is a vital component of the postwar international order,” strongly condemning Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks on a Taiwan contingency as “challenging the international order.” China is believed to be seeking France’s support to increase pressure on Japan. 

According to the ministry, Macron stated regarding the Taiwan issue that he “steadfastly supports the one China policy.” He reportedly urged Xi to avoid worsening Japan–China tensions. 

Yomiuri Shimbun News (Japanese)   

China is deploying a large number of naval and coast guard vessels across East Asian waters, at one point more than 100, in the largest maritime show of force to date, according to four sources and intelligence reports reviewed by Reuters. The Chinese vessels have massed from the southern part of the Yellow Sea through the East China Sea and down into the South China Sea, as well as into the Pacific, according to four security officials in the region. As of the morning of December 4, more than 90 Chinese vessels are operating there, down from over 100 earlier this week, the documents showed. 

Reuters  

On December 4, Japan has sent a second letter to UN Secretary-General rebutting China's assertions regarding remarks that Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae made about Taiwan. 

This comes after China sent Guterres a second letter about the issue on December 1. 

The Chinese second letter accused Japan of trying to shift the blame and again demanded a retraction of Takaichi's remarks. Japan's second letter states, "As with China's previous letter dated 21 November, the assertions contained therein are inconsistent with the facts, unsubstantiated, and are categorically unacceptable." The letter also stresses that Japan will continue to contribute to the international community as a peace-loving state. It adds that Japan "will continue to respond calmly through dialogue." 

NHK World  

Reference: Japan's position on China's statement against Japan (24 November)

Reference: Japan's position on China's statement against Japan (4 December)

On December 5, Japan’s National Security Secretariat Secretary-General held talks with the Philippine National Security Adviser. On December 4, he paid courtesy calls on the Philippine Foreign Secretary and Defense Secretary. In this series of meetings, he conveyed that “as both countries face security challenges, we wish to maintain and strengthen a free and open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) based on the rule of law,” confirming the reinforcement of multilateral security cooperation. This is seen as targeting China, which is intensifying its maritime expansion.  

Nikkei Shimbun News (Japanese)  

On December 5, Japan-EU senior officials virtual dialogue was held. 

The two sides had a broad exchange of views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific under the current international environment and affirmed that Japan and the EU would continue working closely together. They confirmed the importance of further enhancing their cooperation including in the areas of security to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law and concurred on continuing close communication through various levels.  

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

On December 5, the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) confirmed one Chinese Renhai class destroyer (hull number 103), one Chinese Jangkai II class frigate (hull number 547) and one Chinese Fuchi class replenishment ship (hull number 902) sailing northwest in waters 120km east of Miyakojima Island (Okinawa Prefecture).  These vessels sailed northwest through the waters between Okinawajima Island (Okinawa Prefecture) and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the East China Sea. 

Japan Joint Staff

On December 5, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Admiral Kuznetsov class aircraft carrier Liaoning (hull number 16) sailing in waters 420km north of Kubajima Island (Okinawa Prefecture). On December 6, one aircraft carrier Liaoning, one Chinese Renhai class destroyer (hull number 101) and two Chinese Luyang III class destroyer (hull number 117 and 124) sailed southeast through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the Pacific Ocean. 

Later that day, the JMSDF confirmed that these vessels were sailing in waters 270 km west of Oki Daitojima Island (Okinawa Prefecture), while fighter aircraft and helicopters were conducting takeoffs and landings from the aircraft carrier Liaoning. The JASDF scrambled to them.  

Japan Joint Staff

Following December 5 to 6, on December 7, the JMSDF confirmed one Admiral Kuznetsov class aircraft carrier Liaoning, one Renhai class destroyer (hull number 101) and two Luyang III class destroyer (hull number 117 and 124) sailed northeast through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Minami Daitojima Island (Okinawa Prefecture) and later continued moving east in waters 190 km east of Kikaishima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture). On December 6, the JMSDF confirmed approximately 50 takeoffs and landings by carrier-based fighter aircraft and helicopters from the aircraft carrier Liaoning, and on December 7, confirmed approximately 50 additional takeoffs and landings by carrier-based fighter aircraft and other aircraft. The JASDF scrambled to them. 

Japan Joint Staff

On December 6, over the high seas southeast of Okinawajima Island, J-15 fighter aircraft launched from the aircraft carrier Liaoning intermittently directed radar at JASDF F-15 fighter aircraft while the F-15 were conducting a scramble to monitor the activity of J-15 fighter aircraft. 

In the same area, J-15 launched from the Liaoning intermittently directed radar at another JASDF F-15. 

On December 7, Japan’s vice minister for foreign affairs summoned ambassador of China. 

Directing radar at another aircraft constitutes a dangerous act that goes beyond what is necessary for the safe operation of aircraft. Japan’s vice minister made a strong protest that such dangerous acts are extremely regrettable and strongly urged the Government of China to ensure that similar actions do not recur. It should be noted that no damage was incurred by the JASDF aircraft or personnel. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Ministry of Defense of Japan (Japanese)  

Reference: Naval News  

On December 7, a Japan-Australia defense ministers' meeting was held. The following is an excerpt from the joint statement. 

We emphasised the importance of further strengthening defence cooperation across all areas amid a deteriorating and increasingly complex regional security environment. Recognising the important role that both countries play in upholding regional peace and stability, we announced the establishment of the Framework for Strategic Defence Coordination (FSDC), which will be led by defence ministers. 

We confirmed that both countries will continue to work closely with the United States and other partners to deter and prevent conflict, and to contribute to peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific. We reaffirmed the importance of continued trilateral cooperation between Japan, Australia and the United States, to strengthen deterrence and response capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region and ensure effective collaboration. 

We reiterated our strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion and expressed serious concern about the situations in the East and South China Seas. 

We reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and practical measures. We underscored the importance of ongoing defence cooperation and operational coordination in the South China Sea with the Philippines and other like-minded partners, including through regular Maritime Cooperative Activities. We noted efforts to enhance Japan-Australia-India-U.S. maritime domain awareness cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, including this year’s Exercise MALABAR.  

Ministry of Defense of Japan  

On December 6, the Philippine Coast Guard announced it confirmed over 100 Chinese vessels near Subi Reef in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea, which China has militarized. Near Subi Reef, 29 vessels believed to be carrying China’s paramilitary "maritime militia" were anchored. Flares (incendiary rounds) were reportedly fired at Philippine government aircraft. In areas near the contested Whitsun Reef and other areas, 72 militia vessels were also confirmed.  

Yomiuri Shimbun News (Japanese)  

On December 8, regarding the issue of Chinese military aircraft directing radar at JASDF aircraft, the Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary countered at a press conference that China's accusation that “the JASDF aircraft repeatedly approached and endangered flight safety” was unfounded, stating, "The SDF were performing their duties to counter airspace violations while maintaining a safe distance. The claim that the JASDF aircraft seriously impeded safe flight is unfounded."  

Asahi Shimbun News (Japanese)

On December 8, Japan's Defense Minister told that generally speaking, using radar for searching purposes does not involve intermittent aiming of the device in a way similar to the incident. He said the act is dangerous. He added that Japan does not believe that it has been given flight and navigation information over sea and airspace related to China's navy training in advance. 

He referred to a post on December 8 on X by US Ambassador to Japan George Glass. He wrote "the US-Japan Alliance is stronger and more united than ever." Japan's Defense Minister said the timing of the message shows that the bilateral alliance is always functioning as a deterrent, adding that this is important. He said he hopes to continue having various communications with the US government.  

NHK World  

On December 8, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Jangkai II class frigate (hull number 529) sailing east in waters 80km west of Kuchino Erabujima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture). This vessel sailed east through the Osumi Strait and navigated to the Pacific Ocean. 

On December 8, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Jangkai II class frigate (hull number 548) sailing southeast in waters 130km northeast of Miyakojima Island. This vessel sailed southeast through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the Pacific Ocean.  

Japan Joint Staff

On December 9, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed that two Russian Tu-95 bombers, which had moved from the Sea of Japan into the East China Sea, joined two Chinese H-6 bombers in the East China Sea and then conducted a long-range joint flight from the East China Sea to the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Shikoku. It was also confirmed that four Chinese J-16 fighters joined the bombers as they flew back and forth between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island. Separately, one Russian A-50 airborne early warning and control aircraft and two Russian Su-30 fighters were confirmed in the Sea of Japan. The JASDF scrambled to them. 

Japan Joint Staff

On December 9, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary countered China's claim that Chinese naval fighter aircraft directing radar at Japanese SDF aircraft was not problematic, stating at a press conference, “From the perspective of avoiding unforeseen incidents, it is generally not the case that radar is intermittently directed in the manner seen in this case.” He reiterated his criticism, calling it “a dangerous act exceeding the scope necessary for the safe flight of aircraft.” 

Sankei Shimbun News (Japanese)  

On December 9, China's permanent mission to the UN criticized Japan by referencing historical events at a meeting to address the crime of genocide. A Chinese representative said, "The achievements of victory in World War Two and the outcomes of Nuremberg and Tokyo trials will never be altered." Japan's representative to the UN responded that "All nations must be humble about their history and Japan has squarely faced its history." The representative added that Japan has walked the path of a peace-loving nation in the past eight decades. The exchange took place amid strained ties between Japan and China following a remark about Taiwan last month by Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae.  

NHK World  

It has been revealed that the Philippines has expressed interest in Japan's Ground Self Defense Force Type 03 Middle-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (Chu-SAM), capable of intercepting aircraft and cruise missiles. The Japanese government plans to seriously consider exports to the Philippines if the “Five Categories” rule, which limits defense equipment exports to non-combat purposes, is abolished. By expanding equipment exports to “quasi-allies” and “like-minded countries” in the Indo-Pacific region, such as Australia and the Philippines, Japan aims to enhance deterrence and response capabilities with China’s increasing maritime assertiveness in mind. 

According to sources.  

Mainichi Shimbun News (Japanese)

On December 10, four Chinese coast guard vessels sailed in Japanese waters off the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, the JCG said. The incident marked the first entry by any Chinese official vessel since Dec. 2. According to the JCG, the vessels entered Japanese waters around the Senkaku Islands for about one and a half hours.  

Jiji Press News (Japanese)  

Japan’s Ministry of Defense Statement on Radar Incident against JASDF Aircraft by Chinese Military Aircraft on Dec. 6 (Press release) (Excerpt) 

With regard to the Chinese state media reports concerning the radar incident that occurred on December 6, the Ministry of Defense would like to clarify the following four points. 

First, concerning the notification allegedly made by the Chinese side: On December 6, the day of the radar incident, one of the JMSDF vessels received short communication from a Chinese Navy vessel, near the CV “Liaoning”, stating that they were about to commence flight training, and the Japanese side copied the message. However, no specific information was provided to the JSDF on the scale or airspace of the training by carrier-based aircraft from Liaoning. Furthermore, neither NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) indicating the time, or latitude and longitude of the training area nor navigation warnings for vessels were issued in advance. As a result, Japan did not receive sufficient information necessary to ensure safety and avoid danger. 

Second, the scramble conducted by the JSDF were both appropriate and necessary. Several islands in Okinawa Prefecture are located near the waters where Liaoning was operating. It is natural and imperative for the Ministry of Defense and JSDF, to appropriately conduct airspace intrusion countermeasures against carrier-based aircraft launched from “Liaoning”, regardless of whether prior notification of the training was provided. 

Third, the JASDF F-15 fighter aircraft conducting airspace intrusion countermeasures on December 6 did not use their radar against the carrier-based aircraft of “Liaoning”. 

Fourth and most importantly, the essence of the issue is that, while Japan was appropriately conducting airspace intrusion countermeasures, Chinese military aircraft intermittently illuminated JASDF fighter aircraft with radar for approximately 30 minutes. Such actions exceed the range necessary for the safe operation of aircraft and constitute dangerous behavior. Japan will continue to strongly demand China prevent any recurrence of such acts. 

The Ministry of Defense and JSDF will continue to demonstrate professionalism and respond in a calm and resolute manner. The Ministry of Defense will continue to ensure robust intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities in the sea and airspace surrounding Japan, while also maintaining close communication between our respective defense authorities. 

Ministry of Defense of Japan   

On December 10, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Jangkai II class frigate (hull number 529) sailing west in waters 70km east of Tanegashima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture). This vessel sailed west through the Osumi Strait and navigated to the East China Sea. 

On December 10, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Jangkai II class frigate (hull number 548) sailing northwest in waters 140km northeast of Miyakojima Island. This vessel sailed northwest through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the East China Sea. 

Japan Joint Staff

On December 10, the Japan-Italy defense ministers video teleconference was held. 

Japan’s minister expressed his resolve to deepen the Japan-Italy relationship in the increasingly severe security environment. Both ministers discussed regional security environment. Japan’s minister briefed the radar incident that occurred on December 6 when Chinese military aircraft intermittently directed radar at JASDF fighters and the Chinese-Russian bombers’ joint flight from the Eastern Sea to the Pacific that occurred on December 9 and shared his grave concerns over these. They concurred to strengthen the bilateral defense cooperation relationship for peace and stability of the region. 

Ministry of Defense of Japan

On December 10, the video teleconference between Japan’s defense minister and NATO secretary general was held. 

They discussed regional security environment. Japan’s minister briefed the radar incident that Chinese military aircraft intermittently directed radar at JASDF fighters and the Chinese-Russian bombers’ joint flight from the Eastern Sea to the Pacific that occurred on December 9. They shared their grave concerns over this incident and concurred to closely communicate with each other. Japan’s minister emphasized to respond to such acts conducted by China in a calm and yet resolute manner. They agreed to continue working closely to further advance cooperation between Japan and NATO, and between NATO and IP4. 

Ministry of Defense of Japan

On December 10, Japan’s secretary general of national security secretariat held a phone consultation with German Chancellor's Advisor for Foreign and Security Policy. The two sides exchanged views on the situation and challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, explained Japan's position, and confirmed cooperation between Japan and Germany. The talks are believed to have covered issues such as Chinese military aircraft directing radar at JASDF aircraft and Japan-China relations concerning Taiwan. This discussion aims to counter China while demonstrating Japan's position to the international community.  

Nikkei Shimbun News (Japanese)  

On December 10, the meeting between Japan’s senior deputy minister and France’s  director-general of political affairs and security was held. 

They concurred to advance the strengthening of the bilateral relationship between Japan and France, which are "Exceptional Partners" sharing values and principles. They had a broad exchange of views on regional situations, including the Indo-Pacific. Both sides committed to strengthening cooperation on priority issues in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan  

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued another notice on December 11 urging its citizens to refrain from traveling to Japan. The reason cited is that earthquakes are still expected to occur in Japan following the December 8 earthquake centered off the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture. 

The Chinese government strongly opposed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks regarding a Taiwan contingency. On November 14, it had already issued a notice urging citizens to refrain from travel, citing that “the atmosphere for personnel exchanges between China and Japan has deteriorated severely.” 

Jiji Press News (Japanese)  

On December 12, Japan-U.S. defense ministerial telephone conference was held.  

The Ministers exchanged candid views on the increasingly severe Indo-Pacific security environment, including the December 6 incident in which Chinese military aircraft directed radar at JASDF aircraft. Japan’s minister affirmed that Japan will continue steadfast surveillance and monitoring, and respond calmly and resolutely to any contingencies. They shared serious concern that China’s actions heighten regional tensions, agreed to maintain close communication and cooperation, and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen Alliance deterrence and response capabilities. 

Ministry of Defense of Japan

Reference: U.S. Department of War

Monthly Statistics on Scrambles（November） 

The Japan Joint Staff released its monthly statistics on scrambles. In November, the JASDF conducted 33 scrambles. The most scrambles are against Chinese aircrafts (28 times). The others were against Russian aircrafts (5 times).  

Japan Joint Staff

On December 12, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Dongdiao class Intelligence ship (hull number 794) sailing northwest in waters 120km northeast of Miyakojima Island. This vessel sailed northwest through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the East China Sea. 

Japan Joint Staff

Following December 9, on December 10, the JMSDF confirmed one Chinese Admiral Kuznetsov class aircraft carrier Liaoning and two Luyang III class destroyer (hull number 117 and 124) sailing in waters 210km southeast of Oki Daitojima Island. On December 11, these vessels sailed in waters 390km southwest of Oki Daitojima Island. 

On December 9, the JMSDF confirmed approximately 20 takeoffs and landings by carrier-based fighter aircraft and helicopters from the aircraft carrier Liaoning; on December 10, approximately 20 additional takeoffs and landings; on December 11, approximately 60 additional takeoffs and landings; and on December 12, approximately 20 additional takeoffs and landings. As a result, the total number of takeoffs and landings confirmed between December 6 and December 12 amounted to approximately 260. 

On December 12, the JMSDF confirmed one aircraft carrier Liaoning, one Chinese Renhai class destroyer (hull number 101), two Chinese Luyang III class destroyer (hull number 117 and 124) and one Chinese Fuchi class replenishment ship (hull number 901) sailed northwest through the waters between Okinawajima Island and Miyakojima Island and navigated to the East China Sea. 

The JASDF scrambled to them. 

Japan Joint Staff

The Philippine Department of National Defense issued a statement on December 12 expressing “deep concern” over the Chinese military aircraft's radar lock-on of an JASDF aircraft. It condemned China, stating, “Dangerous actions in international airspace are unacceptable and underscore the urgency of maintaining a rules-based order.” The statement also asserted, “We stand with like-minded nations such as Japan, which choose transparency, restraint, and adherence to international law over intimidation and provocation.” 

Jiji Press News (Japanese)

The Philippine Coast Guard announced on December 13 that on December 12, while approximately 20 Philippine fishing vessels were operating near Sabina Reef within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, they were sprayed with water from vessels believed to be carrying China's paramilitary “maritime militia,” resulting in three injuries. 

The Philippine Coast Guard condemned China, stating it “endangered the lives of our citizens.” 

Yomiuri Shimbun News (Japanese)