Japan has issued a warning about China's growing military activity that could undermine the country's security. According to its annual report or white paper, a Chinese military plane entered Japanese airspace in August last year. In September, a Chinese aircraft carrier and two warships passed between Japanese islands near Taiwan.
Japan reiterated that China's actions are a "serious threat." It also noted that last year, Chinese ships were spotted 355 times near the Senkaku islands (called Diaoyu in China). Last month, two Chinese aircraft carriers sailed simultaneously in the Pacific Ocean — an unusual move inside Japan's exclusive economic zone.
Beijing admitted that these were just part of “normal training,” but according to the report, it was a clear show of strength against Japan. China has also intensified joint military exercises with Russia, which has further raised concerns on Tokyo's side.
Japan also cited the continuing threat from North Korea. According to the white paper, North Korea now poses a more serious and rapid threat to their national security.
Japan is strengthening its military ties with the United States and other allies to be better prepared in the event of tensions over Taiwan. The US is also pushing for Japan and Australia to increase their defense spending and show what role they would play in the event of a war between China and the US.
