Japan Scrambles Jets to Warn Off Russian Plane Violating Airspace

Japanese warplanes used flares to warn a Russian reconnaissance aircraft that breached airspace above Rebun Island three times during a joint Chinese-Russian naval exercise. Defense Minister Minoru Kihara condemned the violation, which followed a series of similar incidents and highlighted rising military tensions in the region.

Japanese warplanes deployed flares to deter a Russian Il-38 reconnaissance aircraft that intruded into Japan's airspace above Rebun Island three times on Monday, according to Defense Minister Minoru Kihara.

The aircraft breached airspace amid a five-hour flight, just a day after a Sino-Russian joint naval flotilla sailed past northern Japanese coasts. Kihara suggested the incident might be linked to the joint exercise announced earlier.

Japan's response included scrambling F-15 and F-35 fighters and issuing strong diplomatic protests. This action reflects Tokyo's growing concern over increased Sino-Russian military coordination and China's assertive moves in Japanese territorial airspace and waters.

(With inputs from agencies.)