Key Facts
• June 7-8, 2025: Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong’s jets approached Japanese patrol planes.
• Closest distance recorded: approximately 45 meters over the western Pacific.
• Japan’s top defense official Yoshida described the act as “deliberate” and “serious.”
• Yoshida warned of risks of “accidental collisions” and emphasized strict monitoring.
• Chinese military activities, including dual aircraft carrier operations, are expanding.
• Yoshida expressed concerns over unilateral status quo changes by China.
• Japan’s Prime Minister and Defense Minister were briefed on the same day.
• No confirmation on the use of the hotline between Japan and China.
Summary
Japan’s Chief of Staff, Yoshihide Yoshida, has raised alarms over a recent incident involving Chinese military aircraft approaching Japanese patrol planes at an unusually close distance of 45 meters. The event, occurring on June 7-8, 2025, over the western Pacific, was deemed “deliberate” and a “serious act” with potential to trigger accidental collisions. Yoshida emphasized the importance of maintaining strict surveillance to prevent unilateral changes to the status quo by China, whose military activities, including dual aircraft carrier operations, are intensifying. While Japan’s leadership was promptly informed, no details were provided on the use of the Japan-China hotline. Yoshida reiterated Japan’s commitment to vigilant monitoring amid rising tensions.
