In December 2025, Japan carried out a rare military demonstration by deploying at least 16 F-2 fighters from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, equipped with a total of 64 ASM-2 anti-ship missiles during exercises at the Tsuiki Air Base in Kyushu.
The deployment came amid increased Chinese Navy activity in waters close to the Japanese archipelago and was interpreted as a direct response to the operations of the Liaoning aircraft carrier in the western Pacific.
According to defense authorities, the presence of the Liaoning south of Okinawa and Kyushu, as well as incidents involving Chinese J-15 aircraft illuminating Japanese fighters with radar, significantly raised tensions in the region.
The Japanese Ministry of Defense views these actions as a serious development, especially after recent exercises in which two Chinese aircraft carriers operated simultaneously in the Pacific, simulating large-scale naval confrontation scenarios.
In response to this situation, Japan is accelerating the strengthening of its defensive posture in the Pacific, traditionally seen as a vulnerable point. Measures include the installation of new radars on remote islands, the modification of Izumo-class destroyers to operate F-35B fighters, and the creation of a new office dedicated to Pacific defense.
The goal is to increase surveillance and response capabilities in the face of the growing presence of Chinese naval forces in the region.
Source: Naval News | Photo: X @JASDF_PAO_ENG | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
