Chinese and Russian bombers conduct joint flight around Japan; government expresses concern
On June 27, 2026, Chinese and Russian military bombers conducted a joint flight in the airspace around Japan. In response, the Japanese government conveyed its "grave concern" regarding the movements of both countries through diplomatic channels.
According to the Ministry of Defense, the Chinese and Russian aircraft flew from the Sea of Japan to the East China Sea. While there was no violation of Japanese airspace, the flight indicates strengthening military cooperation between the two nations around Japan. The Japanese government is heightening its vigilance, noting that these actions could impact the security environment of the surrounding region.
Meanwhile, tensions are also rising in the Middle East on the same day. The U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes on facilities within Iran in retaliation for an attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The international community is concerned about the impact that the worsening situation in the Middle East may have on the global economy and energy supplies.
The Japanese government is closely monitoring these international developments. Regarding security in the vicinity of Japan in particular, the government maintains its policy of continuing to coordinate with relevant nations while taking necessary measures to protect the safety of its citizens.