{"id":3048,"date":"2026-02-27T13:54:21","date_gmt":"2026-02-27T04:54:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/?page_id=3048"},"modified":"2026-03-05T14:41:30","modified_gmt":"2026-03-05T05:41:30","slug":"vol-40-february-27-2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/newsletter\/vol-40-february-27-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Vol. 40 February 27, 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<div>\n<style>\n    body {\n      background-color: #fafafa;\n    }\n    h1,\n    h2,\n    h3,\n    h4,\n    th,\n    td,\n    p,\n    div {\n      font-family: \"Helvetica\", sans-serif;\n    }\n    .center-wrapper {\n      max-width: 600px;\n      margin: 0 auto;\n      background-color: #ffffff;\n      padding: 20px 10px;\n    }\n    hr,\n    .hr {\n      border: none;\n      border-bottom: 1px solid #000;\n      margin: 10px 0;\n      max-width: none;\n    }\n    .topics-table th,\n    .topics-table td {\n      padding: 3.75pt 13.5pt;\n      vertical-align: top;\n      border: 1px solid #ffffff !important;\n    }\n    .topics-header-date {\n      background: #a5e9ff;\n      border-right: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n      text-align: center !important;\n      width: 100px;\n      white-space: nowrap;\n    }\n    .topics-header-title {\n      background: #eeeeee;\n      font-weight: bold;\n      text-align: center;\n    }\n    .topics-date {\n      background: #a5e9ff;\n      border-top: solid white 1pt;\n      border-right: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n      text-align: center;\n      white-space: nowrap;\n    }\n    .topics-content {\n      background: #eeeeee;\n      border-top: solid white 1pt;\n      border-bottom: none;\n    }\n    .topics-source {\n      color: #2322e4;\n      font-weight: bold;\n    }\n    .topics-link {\n      color: #337ab7;\n      word-break: break-all;\n    }\n    .analysis-box {\n      margin-bottom: 1.5rem;\n      padding: 1rem;\n      background: #aeedf1;\n    }<\/p>\n<p>    .l-post-content table.stats-table {\n      border-collapse: collapse;\n      border-top: none;\n      word-break: break-all;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th,\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td {\n      border: 1px solid #000;\n      text-align: center;\n      vertical-align: middle;\n      padding: 4px;\n      background-color: #d9e1f2;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th {\n      background-color: #b4c6e7;\n      font-weight: bold;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td.stats-spacer-col {\n      border: none;\n      width: 10px;\n      background-color: #fff;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(1),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(1),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(5),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(5) {\n      width: 10%;\n    }\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(2),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(2),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(3),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(3),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(6),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(6),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table th:nth-child(7),\n    .l-post-content table.stats-table td:nth-child(7) {\n      width: 20%;\n    }\n  <\/style>\n<div class=\"center-wrapper\">\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center; font-size: 18pt; color: #202020; margin-bottom: 20px\">Vol.40. February 27. 2026<\/h1>\n<p>What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 40px 0\">\n<p style=\"font-size: 16pt; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 10px\">Monthly Column<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 18pt; font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 10px\">China\u2019s Radar Illumination and Information Releases as a Hybrid Warfare Operation<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-bottom: 0\">by Futoshi Tsubokubo,<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; margin-top: 0\">Senior Research Fellow, Nakasone Peace Institute<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>1. Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\n      On December 7, 2025, Japan\u2019s Ministry of Defense released a statement regarding an incident in which a People\u2019s Liberation Army (PLA) J-15 fighter aircraft, which had launched from the PLA Navy aircraft carrier \u201cLiaoning,\u201d illuminated a Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF)<br \/>\n      fighter aircraft with its radar in the high seas airspace southeast of Okinawa Island on December 6[1]. According to the statement, the radar illumination was conducted intermittently on two occasions for a total duration of more than thirty minutes, which was a dangerous<br \/>\n      act that exceeded the range necessary for a safe flight of aircraft, and the Japanese Government made a strong protest against the extremely dangerous act and strongly urged the Government of China to ensure that similar actions do not recur.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      China\u2019s reaction was swift. On the same day, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged the Japanese side to stop its dangerous moves, which, according to China, caused maritime and air security risks and harassed China\u2019s routine military exercises and training<br \/>\n      activities[2]. The spokesperson also insisted that Japan was deliberately making a false accusation against China to raise tension and mislead the international community with disinformation and political manipulation. Further, on December 9, just two days after Japan\u2019s<br \/>\n      statement, a Chinese social media account affiliated with China Central Television (CCTV), China\u2019s state broadcaster, released an alleged audio recording of radio communications in which a PLA vessel notified a JSDF ship of a training area[3]. Following the release of the<br \/>\n      radio recording, Chinese media reported details of the incident in their own accounts. For example, Global Times, a media outlet affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party, released its own account of the two sides\u2019 aircraft maneuvers, asserting that the JSDF fighter jet<br \/>\n      had intentionally disrupted China\u2019s routine military training despite China\u2019s prior notification of the training area[4]. It further claimed that Japan was maliciously hyping the so\u2011called \u201cChina threatens regional security\u201d narrative. Meanwhile, Japan\u2019s Defense Minister<br \/>\n      Shinjiro Koizumi rejected the Chinese claim that it had issued advance warnings, noting that no proper notification\u2014such as a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)\u2014had been provided. He also explained that airborne radar systems on fighter aircraft serve not only search functions but<br \/>\n      also fire-control purposes; therefore, conducting such intermittent illumination constitutes a dangerous act[5].\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      It is not the first time that the PLA has conducted radar illumination against JSDF maritime and air assets. In January 2013, a PLA naval vessel directed fire-control radar at a JSDF ship and a rotary-wing aircraft[6]. In both the previous incident and the present case, the<br \/>\n      PLA forces are suspected of intentionally illuminating the JSDF assets with radar. However, what distinguishes the current incident is that China proactively released information, including the alleged audio recording.\n    <\/p>\n<p>What accounts for the difference between the past and present cases? What objectives did China seek to achieve by releasing this information? This article addresses these questions through the lens of hybrid warfare, including disinformation operations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Hybrid warfare \u2014 a blend of military and non\u2011military means<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\n      Hybrid warfare refers to the use of a blend of military and non-military means to achieve strategic objectives. For example, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) describes hybrid threats as a combination of military and non-military, as well as covert and overt,<br \/>\n      means, including disinformation, cyberattacks, economic pressure, the deployment of irregular armed groups, and the use of regular forces[7]. Hybrid warfare is characterized by the pursuit of strategic goals without resorting to full-scale military operations, which have<br \/>\n      traditionally been considered essential in most cases.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      Moreover, a distinctive feature of hybrid warfare is that its targets are not limited to the physical domain; they also encompass domestic and international information spaces, as well as the cognitive domain of populations influenced by those information flows.<br \/>\n      Accordingly, in hybrid warfare, battlespace extends from the physical domain to the information and cognitive domains, where not only traditional land, maritime, and air superiority but also information superiority is sought. By its very nature, hybrid warfare is therefore<br \/>\n      highly complex, employing a wide range of instruments and blurring the boundaries between peacetime and wartime.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      To address the complexity of hybrid warfare, various efforts have been made. One of them is the hybrid warfare conceptual model developed by the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats (Hybrid CoE)[8]. The conceptual model\u2014composed of four pillars:<br \/>\n      actors and their strategic objectives, the tools applied by them, the domains they targeted, and the phases of activity\u2014provides a framework for understanding the complexity of hybrid threats. The conceptual model illustrates forty hybrid warfare tools and thirteen targeted<br \/>\n      domains. These tools encompass a wide range of kinetic and non kinetic means, including conventional and sub conventional military operations, military exercises, and disinformation campaigns and propaganda. The targeted domains consist of various societal elements, such as<br \/>\n      diplomacy, politics, and information. The following section examines this case with reference to the analytical frameworks of hybrid warfare presented in the existing literature.\n    <\/p>\n<p><strong>3. An analysis of the incident through the lens of hybrid warfare<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>This section analyzes China\u2019s radar illumination incident and its subsequent information releases through the lens of hybrid warfare. More specifically, it examines the means employed and the domains targeted in order to clarify China\u2019s objectives.<\/p>\n<p>\n      With respect to the means employed, China used two main instruments: military intimidation and a disinformation campaign. First, China used military platforms deployed for the exercise on the high seas southeast of Okinawa\u2014specifically, the J-15 fighter jet that illuminated<br \/>\n      the JSDF aircraft with its radar. This act constituted military intimidation by China\u2019s naval and air forces. Second, while asserting that the Japanese fighter jet had entered the training area despite China\u2019s prior notice, China also claimed that Japan was spreading the<br \/>\n      narrative that China poses a threat to regional security. China\u2019s subsequent statements and media releases constituted a coordinated disinformation campaign.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      In terms of the targeted domains, China conducted simultaneous actions across the physical and cognitive domains. In the physical domain, it carried out military intimidation by illuminating the JSDF fighter jet with its radar, thereby interfering with Japan\u2019s routine<br \/>\n      warning and surveillance activities. In the cognitive domain, it targeted both international and domestic information spaces through its disinformation campaign. China sought to create the impression that Japan was escalating regional tensions by claiming that the JSDF<br \/>\n      fighter jet had deliberately approached in a dangerous manner despite China\u2019s prior notice and had interfered with its military exercises. By disseminating this narrative in the international information space, China attempted to weaken Japan\u2019s ties with its ally and<br \/>\n      like-minded countries and to isolate Japan diplomatically. Furthermore, China also appears to have sought to influence the cognitive domain of the Japanese public through its disinformation campaign. Specifically, it appears to have aimed to mislead the Japanese public into<br \/>\n      believing\u2014incorrectly\u2014that the Japanese government and the JSDF were engaging in dangerous actions that would worsen Japan\u2013China relations, thereby sowing division between the government, the JSDF, and the public.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      In sum, the radar illumination incident and China\u2019s subsequent information releases constitute a hybrid warfare operation, employing both military intimidation and a disinformation campaign to target the physical and cognitive domains. The objectives of this hybrid warfare<br \/>\n      operation appear to have been to interfere with JSDF activities, diplomatically isolate Japan, and sow division between the Japanese government, the JSDF, and the Japanese public.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      In addition, China may have taken advantage of a preexisting situation in which tensions between Japan and China had already intensified. China reacted sharply to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi\u2019s remarks concerning the possibility of a survival-threatening situation related<br \/>\n      to a Taiwan contingency on November 7\u2014approximately one month before the radar illumination incident. For example, China&#8217;s Consul General in Osaka, Xue Jian, posted a comment on social media stating that &#8220;the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off.&#8221; On November<br \/>\n      13, a Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson warned Japan of a &#8220;crushing&#8221; military defeat if it uses force to intervene over Taiwan[9]. China thus appears to have exploited the heightened tensions that it had itself unilaterally escalated.\n    <\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center\">\n      <img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/40_1.png\" alt=\"Outline of China's Hybrid Warfare Operation\" \/>\n    <\/div>\n<p><strong>4. Conclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\n      In conclusion, the said Chinese activities constitute a hybrid warfare operation. The means included military intimidation and a disinformation campaign, encompassing both kinetic and non\u2011kinetic instruments. The targeted domains were the physical and cognitive domains. The<br \/>\n      objectives of the operation were to disrupt the JSDF\u2019s routine warning and surveillance activities, to diplomatically isolate Japan, and to sow division between the Japanese government, the JSDF, and the Japanese public.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      The radar illumination by the PLA J 15 fighter jet against the JSDF aircraft attracted significant attention because it was extremely dangerous and deviated from established international practice. However, the radar illumination incident should not be viewed in isolation.<br \/>\n      Rather, it formed part of a more complex hybrid warfare operation and should be understood in conjunction with China\u2019s subsequent information releases, as well as the heightened tensions between Japan and China at the time.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      China\u2019s prompt and well organized response to the incident suggests that it executed this hybrid operation deliberately and with prior planning. The National Security Strategy of Japan states that \u201cit is highly likely that hybrid warfare, combining military and non-military<br \/>\n      means to achieve military objectives such as information warfare which utilizes the spread of disinformation prior to an armed attack, will be conducted in an even more sophisticated form in the time ahead[10].\u201d The radar illumination incident and China\u2019s subsequent<br \/>\n      information releases can be assessed as a concrete example of such sophisticated hybrid warfare operations combined with information warfare.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      While this hybrid operation warrants careful assessment from a longer-term perspective, it has thus far had only limited effects on both domestic and international public opinion. For example, in a statement released on December 12, the Philippines\u2019 Department of National<br \/>\n      Defense characterized the radar illumination by the Chinese fighter jet as an unsafe and escalatory action[11]. This is primarily because Japan\u2019s Ministry of Defense provided timely and appropriate information, explaining that the radar illumination constituted a dangerous<br \/>\n      act in light of the characteristics of airborne radar systems on fighter aircraft and that no proper prior notification of the training area, including a NOTAM, had been issued.\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      Going forward, China is expected to continue employing hybrid warfare against Japan by integrating information warfare into its broader strategy. It likely seeks not only to exert pressure \u2014such as military intimidation\u2014in the physical domain, but also to influence domestic<br \/>\n      and international information space and the cognitive domain. Therefore, the Japanese government and the JSDF should strengthen their posture and capabilities to achieve information superiority, in addition to maintaining superiority in the traditional physical domains of<br \/>\n      land, maritime, and air. Furthermore, given that the information space has become globally integrated as a result of advances in information technology and the expansion of communication networks, Japan should enhance cooperation in countering hybrid warfare including<br \/>\n      disinformation operations with the United States\u2014its ally\u2014as well as with like-minded countries that share universal values, including freedom, democracy, respect for fundamental human rights, and the rule of law.\n    <\/p>\n<p><strong>Notes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"overflow-wrap: break-word; word-wrap: break-word\">\n      [1] Japan Ministry of Defense, \u201cRadar Illumination of JASDF Aircraft by Chinese Military Aircraft,\u201d December 7, 2025,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2025\/12\/90c1af84b1ccce0dc35f51c768601d6921647ce5.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2025\/12\/90c1af84b1ccce0dc35f51c768601d6921647ce5.html<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [2] Ministry of Foreign Affairs, People\u2019s Republic of China, \u201cForeign Ministry Spokesperson\u2019s Remarks on Japan\u2019s Accusation of Chinese Naval Carrier-Based Aircraft Conducting \u201cRadar Illumination\u201d on Japanese SDF Fighter Jets,\u201d December 7, 2025,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fmprc.gov.cn\/eng\/xw\/fyrbt\/202512\/t20251207_11768175.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.fmprc.gov.cn\/eng\/xw\/fyrbt\/202512\/t20251207_11768175.html<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [3] \u201cOn-site audio proves Japanese maritime SDF vessel received notifications from Chinese Liaoning carrier formation: yuyuantantian,\u201d Global Times, December 9, 2025,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.globaltimes.cn\/page\/202512\/1350133.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.globaltimes.cn\/page\/202512\/1350133.shtml<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [4] Ibid.<br \/>\n      [5] Japan Ministry of Defense, \u201cRemarks by Defense Minister against China\u2019s Claims on the Radar Incident against Japan Air Self-Defense Force Aircraft by Chinese Military Aircraft on Dec. 6th (Press Conference on Dec. 9th, 2025),\u201d December 10, 2025,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2025\/12\/a405aec2bc5d9b9b37ebcbb1c342446fc54a6375.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2025\/12\/a405aec2bc5d9b9b37ebcbb1c342446fc54a6375.html<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [6] Japan Ministry of Defense, Defense of Japan 2025, 2025, p. 69.<br \/>\n      [7] The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, \u201cCountering Hybrid Threats,\u201d January 29, 2026,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nato.int\/en\/what-we-do\/deterrence-and-defence\/countering-hybrid-threats\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.nato.int\/en\/what-we-do\/deterrence-and-defence\/countering-hybrid-threats<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [8] The European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, \u201cThe landscape of Hybrid Threats: A conceptual model,\u201d February 2021,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hybridcoe.fi\/publications\/the-landscape-of-hybrid-threats-a-conceptual-model\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.hybridcoe.fi\/publications\/the-landscape-of-hybrid-threats-a-conceptual-model\/<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [9] \u201cChina warns Japan of &#8216;crushing&#8217; defeat, tells Chinese citizens to shun visits,\u201d Reuters, November 15, 2025.<br \/>\n      [10] Cabinet Secretariat, National Security Strategy of Japan (Provisional Translation), December, 2022, p. 6,<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cas.go.jp\/jp\/siryou\/221216anzenhoshou\/nss-e.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.cas.go.jp\/jp\/siryou\/221216anzenhoshou\/nss-e.pdf<\/a>.<br \/>\n      [11] \u201cDND hits China&#8217;s radar lock on Japanese aircraft: &#8216;Unsafe, escalatory, reckless&#8217;,\u201d Manila Bulletin, December 13, 2025.\n    <\/p>\n<p>Views expressed or implied in this article are solely those of the author. They must not be construed as representing the views and positions of RIPS or any other organizations.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-size: 16pt; margin: 30px 0 10px\">Statistical Data and Analysis (as of February 27)<\/p>\n<div class=\"analysis-box\">\n<p>\n        In the latter half of this month, Japan\u2019s foreign and defense ministers visited Germany for the Munich Security Conference. The foreign minister attended the G7 Foreign Ministers\u2019 Meeting and met with the NATO secretary-general and the foreign ministers of the United<br \/>\n        States and Germany, reaffirming the importance of international coordination. He also joined a panel discussion, stressing the need to uphold a free and open international order based on the rule of law. The defense minister met with the NATO secretary-general and the<br \/>\n        defense ministers of the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Italy, and Canada, emphasizing that Euro-Atlantic and Indo- Pacific security are inseparable and pledging close cooperation. He also delivered a speech on Japan\u2019s security policy and participated in a dialogue on the<br \/>\n        main stage of the Munich Security Conference.\n      <\/p>\n<p>\n        Japan\u2019s Ministry of Defense also held the Japan\u2013Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue (JPIDD), inviting Pacific Island countries, regional partner countries, and ASEAN countries. Through this meeting of defense ministers, discussions deepened mutual trust and confirmed<br \/>\n        stronger cooperation in addressing shared challenges.\n      <\/p>\n<p>Separately, plans were announced to increase the deployment of the United States\u2019 advanced missile systems in the Philippines.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\n      <strong>[Statistical Data as of February 27]<br \/> <\/strong>\n    <\/p>\n<p>\n      The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) daily updates the statistical data on the number of China Coast Guard vessels entering in the contiguous zone around the Senkaku Islands and intruding into Japanese territorial waters. The below is from the website of the JCG.<br \/>\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp\/mission\/senkaku\/senkaku.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.kaiho.mlit.go.jp\/mission\/senkaku\/senkaku.html<\/a>\n    <\/p>\n<div class=\"table-box\">\n<table class=\"stats-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th>Feb.<\/th>\n<th>Contiguous<br \/>zone<\/th>\n<th>Territorial<br \/>Waters<\/th>\n<td rowspan=\"100\" class=\"stats-spacer-col\"><\/td>\n<th>Feb.<\/th>\n<th>Contiguous<br \/>zone<\/th>\n<th>Territorial<br \/>Waters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>13<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>20<\/td>\n<td>2<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>14<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>21<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>15<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>22<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>16<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>23<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>17<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>24<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>18<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>25<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>19<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<td>26<\/td>\n<td>4<\/td>\n<td><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<p style=\"font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-size: 16pt; margin: 30px 0 10px\">Topics<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-box\">\n<table class=\"topics-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th class=\"topics-header-date\">Date<\/th>\n<th class=\"topics-header-title\" style=\"text-align: center\">Topics<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>Monthly Statistics on Scrambles\uff08January\uff09<\/p>\n<p>Japan Joint Staff released its monthly statistics on scrambles. In January, JASDF conducted 41 scrambles. The most scrambles are against Russian aircrafts (26 times). The others were against Chinese aircrafts (15 times).<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260213_01.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260213_01.pdf<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, Japan\u2013UK defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>The two ministers confirmed continued close cooperation across broad areas. They reaffirmed that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions is inseparable and pledged to oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/d66ec8a7b9b761ecad771138df49e1570d6f2cd3.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/d66ec8a7b9b761ecad771138df49e1570d6f2cd3.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, meeting between Japan\u2019s defense minister and NATO secretary general was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                They reaffirmed their shared view that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions is inseparable. They concurred that cooperation between Japan and NATO and between NATO and IP4 (Indo-Pacific Four: Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the Republic of<br \/>\n                Korea) is increasingly important for strengthening deterrence and should be enhanced. They exchanged views on the regional security environment and Japan-NATO cooperation and confirmed they would promote the partnership.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/c27a164958d2c88799f2080c62ae9552cd80ae7e.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/c27a164958d2c88799f2080c62ae9552cd80ae7e.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, Japan-New Zealand defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>The two Ministers confirmed that they would work together to promote cooperation with NATO and European countries as a member of the IP4, based on the recognition that security of Europe-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is inseparable.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/f9a3ca5cf93b1a42a6e437cd84ebe7dfadd8a9f9.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/f9a3ca5cf93b1a42a6e437cd84ebe7dfadd8a9f9.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, Japan\u2013Italy defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>The two ministers exchanged views on regional security issues and confirmed that they would work closely together, based on the view that security of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is inseparable.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/484acabef0d3a45cb1dc15a586afe37d7abfa075.htm\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/484acabef0d3a45cb1dc15a586afe37d7abfa075.htm<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, Japan\u2013Canada defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                The two ministers noted that, based on their shared recognition that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions is increasingly inseparable, strengthening cooperation with like-minded countries is becoming more important. They confirmed they would<br \/>\n                continue working closely to deepen Japan\u2013Canada defense cooperation and exchanges and advance a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/7266942cdd9786db922ea120bb7caa3bf7af325c.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/7266942cdd9786db922ea120bb7caa3bf7af325c.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/13<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 13, Japan\u2019s defense minister delivered a speech on Japan\u2019s security and defense policy and participated in a dialogue on the main stage of the Munich Security Conference.<\/p>\n<p>\n                He noted that the international order\u2014rule of law, freedom of navigation, and respect for sovereignty\u2014is being tested by attempts to unilaterally change the status quo in the Indo-Pacific. He outlined key initiatives: strengthening Japan\u2019s defense, reinforcing the<br \/>\n                Japan-U.S. Alliance, and expanding Indo-Pacific connectivity. He reaffirmed Japan\u2019s determination to work with allies and like-minded partners and to contribute to global peace and stability through broad security cooperation.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/5c4425b46125fb1b988856ef2185e310836423b9.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/5c4425b46125fb1b988856ef2185e310836423b9.html<\/a><\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Munich Security Conference: Speech and Dialogue (Video)<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/securityconference.org\/en\/msc-2026\/agenda\/event\/japan-in-the-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/securityconference.org\/en\/msc-2026\/agenda\/event\/japan-in-the-world\/<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 13, Japanese authorities released the captain of a Chinese fishing vessel captured in Japan&#8217;s exclusive economic zone after China submitted documents guaranteeing a deposit. The vessel ignored an order to stop, and officials arrested the captain on<br \/>\n                suspicion of violating the law on sovereign fishing rights. The captain admitted not complying with the inspection.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">NHK World<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260214_01\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260214_01\/<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan\u2019s foreign minister met with the NATO secretary general in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                The minister welcomed continued high-level exchanges and stated that, given the inseparability of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security, cooperation between Japan and NATO and between NATO and its Indo-Pacific partners (Australia, New Zealand, and the Republic<br \/>\n                of Korea) is strategically important. He added that Japan will strengthen relations with NATO. The secretary general shared this view, expressed his desire to further develop the Japan-NATO relationship, and valued Japan\u2019s cooperation with NATO. They exchanged<br \/>\n                views on regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific, and confirmed that Japan and NATO and NATO and its Indo-Pacific partners will continue close cooperation.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/ep\/pageite_000001_00009.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/ep\/pageite_000001_00009.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, the G7 foreign minister\u2019s meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                On international partnerships, India\u2019s foreign minister joined discussions on cross-cutting threats, including maritime security. The ministers reaffirmed the importance of the G7 working closely with partners, including Global South countries. On maritime<br \/>\n                security, Japan\u2019s minister outlined Japan\u2019s initiatives under the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and emphasized cooperation among like-minded countries.\n              <\/p>\n<p>Regarding regional situations, the G7 ministers discussed a wide range of areas and confirmed the importance of a coordinated response. On the Indo-Pacific, Japan\u2019s minister explained Japan\u2019s position on recent developments.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/fp\/pc\/pageite_000001_00013.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/fp\/pc\/pageite_000001_00013.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan-U.S. foreign ministers\u2019 meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Japan\u2019s minister expressed his desire to work closely to forge a new chapter in the Japan-U.S. Alliance. They exchanged candid views on common challenges across various fields and agreed on concrete security cooperation to strengthen the Alliance\u2019s deterrence and<br \/>\n                response capabilities.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                They affirmed their commitment to coordination among like-minded countries, such as Japan-U.S.-ROK, Japan-U.S.-Philippines, and Japan-Australia-India-U.S., toward a free and open Indo-Pacific, and exchanged broad views on regional affairs. U.S. secretary of state<br \/>\n                reiterated the United States\u2019 unwavering commitment to the Japan-U.S. Alliance.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/na\/na1\/us\/pageite_000001_01481.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/na\/na1\/us\/pageite_000001_01481.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan-Germany foreign ministers\u2019 meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Germany\u2019s minister stated that deepening cooperation with Japan, a partner sharing common values, is increasingly important and expressed his desire to further deepen bilateral cooperation. In response, Japan\u2019s minister welcomed Germany\u2019s active engagement in the<br \/>\n                Indo-Pacific, noting this year marks the 10th anniversary of Japan\u2019s \u201cFree and Open Indo-Pacific\u201d (FOIP), and stated his intention to continue close cooperation.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                They confirmed they will further strengthen the security foundation based on progress in bilateral security cooperation and frankly exchanged views on the situation in East Asia. They confirmed that Japan and Germany will work closely to address international<br \/>\n                challenges.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/de\/pageite_000001_00006.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/de\/pageite_000001_00006.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan\u2019s foreign minister attended a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in the session \u201cDouble Trouble? Europe, Asia, and Connected Security Challenges\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>\n                In the panel discussion, he noted that the security environment is undergoing the most significant changes since WWII and emphasized the need to uphold a free and open international order under the \u201cFree and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).\u201d He highlighted that<br \/>\n                Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable and stressed the importance of cooperation with like-minded countries, including European partners, alongside the Japan-U.S. Alliance.\n              <\/p>\n<p>The panelists discussed policy toward China and cooperation among allies and like-minded countries.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/fp\/nsp\/pageite_000001_00003.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/fp\/nsp\/pageite_000001_00003.html<\/a><\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Munich Security Conference: Panel Discussion (Video)<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/securityconference.org\/en\/msc-2026\/agenda\/event\/double-trouble-europe-the-indo-pacific-and-connected-security-challenges\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/securityconference.org\/en\/msc-2026\/agenda\/event\/double-trouble-europe-the-indo-pacific-and-connected-security-challenges\/<\/a\n              >\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan-Germany defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                They welcomed close defense cooperation and exchanges between Japan and Germany across all services, sharing the view that Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are inseparable. They confirmed they will continue to deepen Japan\u2013Germany defense cooperation,<br \/>\n                including within the Japan-NATO framework, and promote a security environment that does not tolerate unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/724df62e4a1337bf01f35f9a2ea1899cbef41416.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/724df62e4a1337bf01f35f9a2ea1899cbef41416.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, Japan\u2013Australia defense ministerial meeting was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                They expressed their commitment to continue discussions to further strengthen Japan\u2013Australia defense cooperation. They reaffirmed the importance of cooperating and taking concrete steps to strengthen multi-layered cooperative relationships for peace and stability<br \/>\n                in the Indo-Pacific, with Japan and Australia as a central pillar of coordination among like-minded countries.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/b0bf28b047416ef0cee38ce08a002cbba40a1898.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/b0bf28b047416ef0cee38ce08a002cbba40a1898.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/14<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 14, meeting between Japan\u2019s defense minister and EU high representative for foreign affairs and security policy was held in Munich.<\/p>\n<p>\n                At the meeting, they exchanged views on Japan\u2013EU defense cooperation and the increasingly severe security environment. They confirmed they would further promote cooperation, including in maritime security, and work closely to maintain a rules-based international<br \/>\n                order and advance a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/j\/approach\/exchange\/area\/2026\/20260214_eu-j.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/j\/approach\/exchange\/area\/2026\/20260214_eu-j.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/15<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 14, China\u2019s foreign minister again criticized Japan at the Munich Security Conference over prime minister Takaichi Sanae\u2019s remarks on a Taiwan contingency, warning of what he called a dangerous trend in Japan. He said the comments challenged China\u2019s<br \/>\n                sovereignty and the post-World War II order, adding that China could not accept them. He also accused Japan of harboring ambitions to invade and colonize Taiwan and said the specter of militarism still lingers. China has used international forums to press its<br \/>\n                criticism.\n              <\/p>\n<p>Japan\u2019s foreign minister responded that Japan has followed a pacifist path since World War II and remains committed to global peace and prosperity, adding that China\u2019s claims are unfounded.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">NHK World<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260215_01\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260215_01\/<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/15<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>Excerpt from a statement posted on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/p>\n<p>\n                On February 14, a Chinese participant made inappropriate remarks regarding Japan\u2019s security policies at the Munich Security Conference. In response, Japan\u2019s Foreign Minister clarified Japan\u2019s position at another session and lodged a stern demarche through<br \/>\n                diplomatic channels. As China\u2019s assertions are factually incorrect and unfounded, Japan reiterates its position.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                Some countries have increased their military capabilities in a non-transparent manner and attempted unilateral changes to the status quo by force or coercion, which Japan opposes. Japan\u2019s contributions to international peace and stability are widely recognized.<br \/>\n                Its efforts to strengthen defense capabilities respond to a severe security environment and are not directed at any specific country. Japan expects the Taiwan issue to be resolved peacefully through dialogue.\n              <\/p>\n<p>As challenges remain, communication between Japan and China is essential, and Japan remains open to dialogue and will continue to respond calmly and appropriately.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/a_o\/c_m1\/cn\/pageite_000001_01483.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/a_o\/c_m1\/cn\/pageite_000001_01483.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/15<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, plans to aid development of a fish market in Indonesia&#8217;s Natuna Islands, including a wharf, cold-storage, and ice-making facilities, with the market expected to be completed in about a year. Japan has been<br \/>\n                boosting fishery-related aid to the Natuna Islands in the southern South China Sea, likely to curb China&#8217;s influence.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Jiji Press News<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/45812\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/45812<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/16<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 14, the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) confirmed two Russian Steregushchiy class frigate (hull number 333 and 343) and one Dubna class medium seagoing tanker sailing southwest in waters 90km northeast of Tsushima Island (Nagasaki<br \/>\n                Prefecture). These vessels sailed southwest through the Tsushima Strait and navigated to the East China Sea.\n              <\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/40_2.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>On February 16, these vessels sailed southwest through waters between Yonagunijima Island and Iriomotejima Island (both in Okinawa Prefecture) and navigated to the Pacific Ocean.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/40_3.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260216_01.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260216_01.pdf<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/16<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 16, the Japan Joint Staff confirmed one Russian IL-20 intelligence gathering aircraft flying from the continent over the Sea of Japan. The aircraft flew to the area off the coast of Shimane Prefecture, then turned back and flew toward the continent.<br \/>\n                The JASDF scrambled fighter jets in response to this Russian aircraft.\n              <\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center; margin: 10px 0\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.rips.or.jp\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/40_4.png\" alt=\"Map\" \/><\/div>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260216_02.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260216_02.pdf<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/16<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 16, Japan\u2019s chief cabinet secretary said the government is updating its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Citing China\u2019s growing influence and Russia\u2019s invasion of Ukraine, he said Japan\u2019s security environment is becoming increasingly<br \/>\n                challenging. He said the vision, put forward 10 years ago, needs to evolve to meet changing times. The government will add responses to challenges such as economic security and technology competition while retaining its core principles of freedom and the rule of<br \/>\n                law.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Jiji Press News<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/45803\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/sp.m.jiji.com\/english\/show\/45803<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/17<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 17, the United States and the Philippines outlined defense and security plans for this year in a joint statement, including joint military exercises, military modernization support, and increased deployments of U.S. missile and unmanned systems. They<br \/>\n                condemned what they called China\u2019s \u201cillegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities\u201d in the South China Sea and reaffirmed freedom of navigation, overflight and other lawful uses of the sea.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                A mid-range U.S. missile system deployed in 2024, along with an anti-missile launcher deployed last year, remains in the Philippines. China has repeatedly expressed alarm over the deployment and urged the Philippines to withdraw the missile launchers, but Manila<br \/>\n                has rejected the demand.\n              <\/p>\n<p>Neither side elaborated on further missile deployments, though the Philippines is considering future purchases. A Philippine official said the deployments are aimed at deterrence and are not intended to target any country.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">The Associated Press<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/philippines-united-states-missile-systems-63705028db23da2c5a45ae7a46366b77\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/apnews.com\/article\/philippines-united-states-missile-systems-63705028db23da2c5a45ae7a46366b77<\/a\n              >\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/18<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 18, Japan-EU political directors dialogue was held.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Japan&#8217;s senior deputy foreign minister stated that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions is closely linked and expressed Japan\u2019s desire to deepen strategic cooperation with the EU across various fields. The EU\u2019s deputy secretary general<br \/>\n                agreed, and they concurred to elevate Japan-EU relations through cooperation in political and security matters. They also exchanged views on international situations, including the Indo-Pacific, and affirmed that Japan and the EU will continue close cooperation<br \/>\n                within multilateral frameworks.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02091.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02091.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/19<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                JCG personnel held a training session in Jakarta for 10 officials from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia to improve their ability to monitor suspicious vessels. Using a JCG aircraft, they demonstrated radar techniques to determine a ship\u2019s size and<br \/>\n                location, as well as a camera system that automatically tracks objects. A JCG official said cooperation with Southeast Asian nations will help protect the rule of law at sea and ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">NHK World<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260219_24\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www3.nhk.or.jp\/nhkworld\/en\/news\/20260219_24\/index.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/20<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 20, Japan\u2019s prime minister said that, despite tough Japan-Russia relations, Japan aims to resolve the territorial issue and conclude a peace treaty, according to Russia&#8217;s TASS. A Kremlin spokesman, however, said relations have &#8220;been reduced to zero&#8221;<br \/>\n                due to Tokyo&#8217;s &#8220;unfriendly stance,&#8221; noting that there is no dialogue and that it is impossible to discuss a peace treaty under these circumstances. He added that agreements are unlikely without changing the modalities of their relations.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/asia-pacific\/russia-says-no-peace-dialogue-ongoing-with-japan-2026-02-20\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/asia-pacific\/russia-says-no-peace-dialogue-ongoing-with-japan-2026-02-20\/<\/a\n              >\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/22<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 22, a meeting was held between Japan\u2019s state minister for defense and Micronesia\u2019s secretary of justice in Tokyo. Japan\u2019s state minister said the two countries are partners sharing values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. They welcomed<br \/>\n                ongoing defense cooperation, especially on maritime security, and agreed to continue strengthening it.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/49359981701a0f8a2ad78feec58f0bd71a61bce3.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/49359981701a0f8a2ad78feec58f0bd71a61bce3.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/22<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 19, Japan and the United States held the Extended Deterrence Dialogue (EDD) in Washington, D.C. The two sides reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to Japan\u2019s defense using all capabilities, including nuclear, and Japan\u2019s support for U.S. operations to<br \/>\n                maintain peace, to enhance the Alliance\u2019s deterrence. They noted that this support reinforces U.S. deterrence by denial and that U.S. nuclear posture and Japan\u2019s defense capabilities are key to deterring regional aggression.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                They also discussed security challenges from Russia, China, and North Korea, the importance of the Japan-U.S. Guidelines for Extended Deterrence, strengthening the Alliance\u2019s strategic messaging, crisis communications, coordination to support U.S. extended<br \/>\n                deterrence, and conducted a tabletop exercise.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02104.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02104.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/23<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 23, the Japan-UK vice foreign ministers\u2019 meeting was held.<\/p>\n<p>\n                They confirmed that they will strengthen bilateral relations in areas such as security and defense and work together to uphold a free and open international order based on the rule of law. They exchanged views on regional and bilateral issues, including the<br \/>\n                Indo-Pacific, and confirmed that Japan and the UK will further strengthen ties through bilateral, G7, and international cooperation.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02105.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02105.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/23<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 23, Japan- Tonga defense minister\u2019s meeting was held in Tokyo.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Japan\u2019s defense minister stated that Japan and Tonga are partners sharing values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. They confirmed progress in maritime security cooperation, including capacity-building assistance, and agreed to establish a Memorandum<br \/>\n                on Defense Cooperation to further strengthen security collaboration.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/02680a8cd0e274196316ce29600af572d2ccec62.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/02680a8cd0e274196316ce29600af572d2ccec62.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/23<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 23, Japan-PNG defense minister\u2019s meeting was held in Tokyo.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Japan\u2019s defense minister stated that Japan and PNG are partners sharing values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. They exchanged views on maritime security cooperation and affirmed their commitment to further enhance it. They agreed to establish a<br \/>\n                Memorandum on Defense Cooperation to strengthen security ties.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/97d24706792f1557f7b07e1196e4e27b8c8d70ee.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/97d24706792f1557f7b07e1196e4e27b8c8d70ee.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/23<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 23, Japan-Fiji defense minister\u2019s meeting was held in Tokyo.<\/p>\n<p>\n                Japan\u2019s defense minister stated that Japan and Fiji are partners sharing values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, and paid his respect to Fiji\u2019s important role in securing peace and stability in the region. They confirmed progress in maritime<br \/>\n                security cooperation, including capacity-building assistance. They agreed to establish a Memorandum on Defense Cooperation to strengthen security ties.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/9fd4755085868fdf8555d4e59c2bb6e9d49d6834.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/9fd4755085868fdf8555d4e59c2bb6e9d49d6834.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/23<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                From February 22 to 24, the Ministry of Defense of Japan held the 3rd Japan\u2013Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue (JPIDD) in Tokyo, with its plenary session on February 23. The three Pacific Island countries with armed forces\u2014Fiji, Papua New Guinea and<br \/>\n                Tonga\u2014participated, along with 11 without armed forces and seven partner countries. ASEAN countries also joined as observers for the first time, bringing total participation to 28 countries and one organization.\n              <\/p>\n<p>At the outset, Japan\u2019s Defense Minister delivered a keynote address, calling for stronger bonds and connectivity and for building an autonomous and resilient region to safeguard the Pacific Ocean as an \u201cOcean of Peace.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\n                In the maritime security session, Japan introduced initiatives including the Ship-rider Program, under which officers from 11 Pacific Island countries embarked on a JMSDF vessel to share maritime security knowledge, as well as joint boarding and inspection<br \/>\n                training.\n              <\/p>\n<p>\n                In response, Pacific Island countries expressed strong appreciation. Many noted that issues such as IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) fishing directly affect national survival but that resources and capabilities are limited, stressing the need for<br \/>\n                cooperation with regional and external partners.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Defense of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/d488029d11aabaeabaac55b615b62f32d53009cc.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/d488029d11aabaeabaac55b615b62f32d53009cc.html<\/a><\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Keynote Address by Japan\u2019s defense minister<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/943b03d55e3e3b350e72c0a3ac7844810c2b3755.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/en\/article\/2026\/02\/943b03d55e3e3b350e72c0a3ac7844810c2b3755.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/24<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                The Japanese government sent a parliamentary vice minister of the Cabinet Office as its representative to the Takeshima Day ceremony on February 22, rather than a Cabinet minister as previously suggested by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. A senior official said the<br \/>\n                move reflected consideration for Japan\u2013South Korea relations.\n              <\/p>\n<p>Amid cooling ties with China and challenges from U.S. President Donald Trump\u2019s administration over tariffs and defense spending, Japan aims to advance cooperation with South Korea, whose strategic importance is growing.<\/p>\n<p>South Korea\u2019s Foreign Ministry protested the ceremony, but its statement was largely identical to last year\u2019s, suggesting a measured response mindful of bilateral relations.<\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Yomiuri Shimbun News<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/japannews.yomiuri.co.jp\/politics\/politics-government\/20260224-313234\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/japannews.yomiuri.co.jp\/politics\/politics-government\/20260224-313234\/<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/24<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 24, following China\u2019s announcement prohibiting exports of dual-use items to certain Japanese companies, a Director-General of Japan\u2019s Foreign Ministry strongly protested to China\u2019s Deputy Chief of Mission and demanded the withdrawal of the measures,<br \/>\n                stating that they are absolutely unacceptable and deeply regrettable, as were the measures announced on January 6, which Japan has also protested as targeting only Japan and deviating significantly from international practice.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02110.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02110.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/24<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 24, Japan-Germany summit telephone meeting was held.<\/p>\n<p>\n                The German chancellor stated that Germany values its partnership with Japan, a like-minded country in the Indo-Pacific. The Japanese prime minister stated that close coordination between the two countries as G7 members is increasingly important, and expressed hope<br \/>\n                for Germany\u2019s continued commitment to the Indo-Pacific, noting that Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security is inseparable. They exchanged views on East Asia and other regions and confirmed that the two countries will work closely to address international<br \/>\n                challenges.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/de\/pageite_000001_00003.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/erp\/erp_2\/de\/pageite_000001_00003.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/25<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 25, Japan\u2019s vice foreign minister held an exchange of views with the U.S. state department counselor and policy planning director.<\/p>\n<p>\n                In light of the current international situation, they discussed Japan-U.S. cooperation, particularly in security, and affirmed their commitment to strengthening the Japan-U.S. Alliance and advancing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. They also discussed a broad range<br \/>\n                of regional issues including the Indo-Pacific, and reaffirmed close coordination between the two countries.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02112.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02112.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/25<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>On February 25, Japan\u2019s foreign minister received a courtesy call from the U.S. state department counselor and policy planning director.<\/p>\n<p>\n                They discussed Japan-U.S. cooperation, including security, with the counselor reiterating the United States\u2019 commitment to the alliance and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. They also exchanged views on regional affairs and affirmed working closely together to realize<br \/>\n                a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02113.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mofa.go.jp\/press\/release\/pressite_000001_02113.html<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/27<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 24, to demonstrate their commitment to strengthening regional and international cooperation in support of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, Japan, U.S. and the Philippines conducted a Multilateral Exercise as a Maritime Cooperative Activity. Participating<br \/>\n                units included JMSDF P-3C; U.S. Navy (USN) destroyer and P-8A; Philippine Navy (PN) and Philippine Air Force (PAF) frigate, FA-50PH, and C-208B; and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) patrol vessel. The exercise focused on tactical operations.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Japan Joint Staff<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260227_01e.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.mod.go.jp\/js\/pdf\/2026\/p20260227_01e.pdf<\/a>\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"topics-date\">2\/27<\/td>\n<td class=\"topics-content\">\n<p>\n                On February 27, China\u2019s military said it conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea from February 23 to 26, accusing the Philippines of \u201cdisrupting\u201d peace by organising joint patrols with countries outside the region. This week, the navies of the<br \/>\n                Philippines, the U.S., and Japan trained together in the South China Sea to strengthen cooperation among the allies.\n              <\/p>\n<p>              <span class=\"topics-source\">Reuters<\/span><br \/>\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/china\/china-conducts-patrol-south-china-sea-accuses-philippines-disrupting-peace-2026-02-27\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"topics-link\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/world\/china\/china-conducts-patrol-south-china-sea-accuses-philippines-disrupting-peace-2026-02-27\/<\/a\n              >\n            <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Newsletter Registration<\/h3>\n<p>What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, \u201cEast Asian Maritime Security (EAMS)\u201d and updates the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory.<\/p>\n<div class=\"u-mbs is-top mw-400\">\n  <a class=\"c-button\" href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/CiMT6bWdHrryT8mM6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span>Registration Form<\/span><\/a>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Vol.40. February 27. 2026 What is happening in East Asian Maritime Security? The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) publishes the biweekly newsletter, the information on maritime security relevant to East Asia and Japan&#8217;s territory. Monthly Column China\u2019s Radar Illumination and Information Releases as a Hybrid Warfare Operation by Futoshi Tsubokubo, Senior Research Fellow, Nakasone Peace Institute 1. Introduction On December 7, 2025, Japan\u2019s Ministry of Defense released a statement regarding an incident in which a People\u2019s Liberation Army &hellip; <span>More<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":2309,"menu_order":4,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v17.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Vol. 40 February 27, 2026 - RIPS - Research Institute for Peace and Security -<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"\u300cVol. 40 February 27, 2026 \u300d\u306b\u3064\u3044\u3066\u3054\u7d39\u4ecb\u3044\u305f\u3057\u307e\u3059\u3002- RIPS - Research Institute for Peace and Security - The Research Institute for Peace and Security (RIPS) is Japan\u2019s first nonprofit, private think tank. 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