Recent events in the Pacific have heightened tensions between China and Japan, with a near miss involving a Chinese fighter jet and a Japanese military plane causing serious concern. The incident occurred when a J-15 fighter jet launched from the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong flew within 45 meters of a Japanese Self-Defence Force patrol plane. Japan's chief cabinet secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, called on Beijing to prevent such incidents from reoccurring, emphasizing the potential for accidental collisions in international waters.

Japan's defense ministry reported that the Chinese fighter jet engaged in other dangerous activities, including passing in front of a Japanese aircraft flying at a similar altitude about 900 meters away. While there were no injuries or damage, Japan expressed serious concerns over the abnormal approaches by the Chinese aircraft. These events have added to the growing unease in the Asia-Pacific region regarding China's assertive naval and air operations.

China views its carrier groups as crucial for projecting power in the region's oceans and has been expanding its reach beyond the first and second island chains that border its eastern coastline. The recent dual aircraft carrier drills in the Pacific were intended to test troops' capabilities in far-sea defense and joint operations, signaling China's intention to enhance its presence in the region.

Despite Japan's complaint about the near miss, China's military and government have not publicly responded. Chinese officials have defended their activities, stating that they are in line with international law and practices and emphasizing a defensive national defense policy. While the naval activities are said to be non-specific, the PLA is openly working towards the ability to launch a land invasion of Taiwan.

State media reports have accused Japan of potentially breaching its postwar constitution by deploying new missile systems to its southern main island of Kyushu. This move, along with other weapons procurement, has been labeled as confrontational and could impact the peaceful development prospects of the region.

Both the Shandong and Liaoning, Chinese aircraft carriers, entered Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) for the first time last weekend, conducting drills in the Pacific. These actions have raised concerns and highlighted the escalating tensions in the region.