Tokyo, Sketsa.id – A Chinese fighter jet came dangerously close to a Japanese military aircraft during a routine patrol over the Pacific Ocean on Wednesday (June 11, 2025), according to Japan’s Ministry of Defense.

The incident occurred when the Chinese jet, having just taken off from the aircraft carrier Shandong, approached a Japanese Self-Defense Forces (SDF) patrol aircraft at a distance of merely 45 meters.

This was not an isolated event. Just days earlier, another Chinese fighter jet—also operating from the Shandong—conducted risky maneuvers, including flying directly in front of an SDF surveillance aircraft.

In response, the Japanese government lodged a formal protest with Beijing and demanded an immediate halt to such actions, citing serious concerns over air safety and regional stability.

The incident came shortly after Japan reported that two Chinese aircraft carriers, Liaoning and Shandong, were sailing together through the western Pacific.

On Monday (June 9, 2025), the Shandong, accompanied by four other warships, entered Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). During the transit, Chinese forces conducted flight operations involving both fighter jets and helicopters, approximately 1,700 kilometers south of Tokyo.

China defended its actions, stating they were lawful and in line with international norms.

“China’s national defense policy is defensive in nature. We hope Japan will view our military activities objectively and rationally,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.(*)