China defends army aircraft against Japan’s claims

(MENAFN) A Chinese defense spokesperson dismissed Japanese allegations that Chinese military aircraft flew “abnormally close” to Japanese planes over the East China Sea, calling China’s response “legitimate and professional.”

Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, said Japanese Air Self-Defense Force reconnaissance aircraft repeatedly conducted close surveillance within China’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ). Chinese aircraft responded by identifying, tracking, and monitoring the Japanese planes in line with international law.

“Our actions were entirely legitimate, reasonable, and conducted in a professional and standard manner,” Jiang said.

He also noted that close reconnaissance and harassment by Japanese military vessels and aircraft pose maritime and air security risks between the two countries. Jiang urged Japan to cooperate with China to foster a stable and constructive bilateral relationship.

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