No one wants armed conflict in Asia. Increasing tensions, rising belligerence and military muscle flexing could result in nations blundering into a real crisis. That is the context within which we must consider the incident last weekend when Chinese fighter jets locked their radar on Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) aircraft.
Japan’s relationship with China is in a downward spiral. This trajectory is likely to continue for some time. While both sides must work to avoid the worst outcomes, China bears the greater responsibility. Japan is committed to the regional status quo. China seeks to change it.
This incident occurred last weekend in international waters southeast of Okinawa when Chinese J-15 fighters, launched from the Liaoning aircraft carrier, “intermittently directed their radar” at ASDF F-15 fighter jets, according to Japan’s Ministry of Defense. The ministry reported that the Chinese planes conducted several radar lock-ons. An aircraft typically activates its fire control radar when it is preparing to attack a target, although it can also be used for search and rescue purposes. The intermittent targeting suggests that search and rescue was not the reason.
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