The Ministry of Defense of Japan published on January 5, 2026 information regarding the emergency take-offs (scramble) carried out by the Japan Self-Defense Force (JASDF) on December 29 and 30, 2025, due to the risk of airspace violations in the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
According to the statement, fighter jets of the Southwest Air Command were alerted to respond to incidents and to monitor air activities deemed sensitive near Japanese territory.
On December 29 of the year Reiwa 7 (2025), Chinese military aircraft, including H-6 bombers, J-16 fighter jets, and Y-9 intelligence-gathering aircraft, were confirmed to pass through the airspace between the main island of Okinawa and Miyako Island, heading towards the Pacific Ocean. In response to this move, the JASDF immediately conducted emergency takeoffs of fighter jets for monitoring and reaction.
The Ministry of Defense and the Japan Self-Defense Forces have stated that they will maintain a state of permanent readiness, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the aim of protecting the national territory and ensuring the peaceful life of the population, while strengthening the continuous monitoring of air activities in the region.
Source and images: Ministry of Defense of Japan — Joint Chiefs of Staff | X @jointstaffpa. This content was created with the help of artificial intelligence and reviewed by the editorial team.
