Analysis: Recent Chinese and Russian Military, Naval Activities Near Japan
Japan’s effective monitoring highlights its defensive readiness. These events necessitate ongoing vigilance and allied coordination to address potential security challenges. No immediate escalation.
INDO-PACIFIC — In April 2025, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Japanese Ministry of Defense detected significant military activities by China and Russia near Japanese territorial waters and airspace.
These included a Chinese naval group transiting the East China Sea and Osumi Strait, a Russian destroyer moving through the Soya Strait, and a Russian IL-20 aircraft approaching the coast of Oki Island.
These events reflect ongoing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region. Japanese forces maintained vigilant monitoring, highlighting regional security concerns.