A Chinese aircraft carrier group, led by the Liaoning, made a significant incursion into Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) over the weekend, marking a noteworthy event in regional military dynamics. According to Japan’s defense ministry, the carrier group, which included two missile destroyers and a fast combat supply ship, was reported to be approximately 300 kilometers (190 miles) southwest of Minamitori, Japan’s easternmost island.
This marked the first occasion a Chinese aircraft carrier has entered this specific area of Japan’s EEZ, prompting officials to assess the implications of China’s expanding military capabilities. A spokesman for the Japanese defense ministry indicated that these maneuvers are indicative of China’s efforts to bolster its operational capabilities and extend its reach into distant maritime zones.
The situation has raised alarms among the United States and its allies in the Asia Pacific region, who are closely monitoring the growing military assertiveness of China, particularly in connection with its claims over disputed territories. In a statement on Monday, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi noted that the government had communicated an “appropriate message” to China regarding the incident, though he didn’t elaborate on whether a formal protest was lodged.
Following the departure of the Liaoning and its vessels from Japan’s EEZ, the ministry reported that the group conducted deck operations involving fighter jets and helicopters. In response to the developments, Japan deployed the destroyer Haguro to observe and monitor the ongoing activities closely.
This recent navigation is not an isolated event. Just last month, the Liaoning had transited between two southern Japanese islands and conducted take-offs and landings while crossing from the East China Sea into the Pacific, continuing its pattern of incursions that have raised concerns in Tokyo. Additionally, in September of the previous year, the carrier had entered Japan’s contiguous waters, which extend 24 nautical miles from its coast, an action Tokyo deemed “unacceptable” and which elicited serious concerns expressed to Beijing.
Under international law, nations possess rights to exploit natural resources and engage in economic activities within their EEZs, extending up to 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) from their shores. Recently, Japan has accused China of undertaking unannounced maritime scientific research within its EEZ, particularly near the remote Okinotori Atoll in the Pacific, further intensifying tensions between the two nations.
