Russian Patrol Aircraft Violated Japanese Airspace, According to Japan

A Russian military patrol aircraft trespassed into Japanese airspace near Hokkaido’s Rebun Island three times on Monday. In response, Japan’s Self-Defense Force dispatched fighter jets, including F15s and F35s, which fired flares in an emergency action, marking the first time such measures have been taken in response to an airspace violation. The SDF aircraft had warned the Russian military over the radio before resorting to firing the flares during the third intrusion. Government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi stated that Japan has protested to Russia through diplomatic channels and demanded that such violations not happen again. Defense Minister Minoru Kihara confirmed that this incident was a serious breach of airspace and highlighted the need to take appropriate measures to ensure Japan’s territorial integrity and national security. The Japanese government’s swift response reflects its commitment to protecting its airspace and territorial boundaries.

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