Chinese Jets Tail Japanese Air Patrol in Close Encounter

A Japanese patrol aircraft was intercepted twice by Chinese fighter jets launched from the aircraft carrier CNS Shandong over the western Pacific last weekend, prompting safety concerns. The incidents occurred in international airspace, with one jet flying as close as 45 meters from the Japanese plane. Japan’s Defense Ministry condemned the “abnormal” maneuvers, warning of collision risks. China, operating both of its carriers beyond the First Island Chain, insists the deployments are routine and legal, Newsweek has reported. Tensions remain high as such close encounters are expected to continue near Japan’s outer islands.