On January 5, 2026, the Japanese Ministry of Defense released information about the scrambles that the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) conducted on December 29 and 30, 2025, in connection with the risk of airspace violations in the East China Sea and over the Pacific Ocean.
According to the statement, fighter jets from the Southwest Air Command were deployed to respond to incidents and monitor air activity deemed sensitive near Japanese territory.
On December 29, Reiwa 7 (2025), Chinese military aircraft, including H-6 bombers, J-16 fighters, and Y-9 reconnaissance aircraft, were confirmed to fly through the airspace between the main island of Okinawa and Miyako Island, continuing towards the Pacific Ocean. In response to this move, the JASDF immediately conducted an emergency takeoff of fighter jets for surveillance and response.
Japan’s Defense Ministry and Self-Defense Forces said they will maintain a 24/7 alert to protect the national territory and ensure the peaceful life of the population, while strengthening the 24/7 surveillance of air activities in the region.
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Source and images: Ministry of Defense of Japan — Joint Staff | X @jointstaffpa. This content was created with the help of artificial intelligence and reviewed by the editorial team.
