China and Russia Conduct Joint Live-Fire Drill in Japan

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TOKYO: Chinese and Russian naval forces conducted a joint live-firing drill inside Japan’s exclusive economic zone, Tokyo officials confirmed on Tuesday. The unprecedented exercise represents a significant escalation in military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow within waters surrounding the Japanese archipelago.

The incident occurred on Sunday when a Chinese missile destroyer and a Russian frigate engaged in machine-gun firing exercises roughly 180 kilometers southwest of Okinotori island. It marks the first time Japan’s defence ministry has detected and disclosed a live-fire drill by China within its EEZ.

In response to the maneuvers, Tokyo immediately deployed naval and air assets to surveil and track the foreign fleet. Top government spokesman Minoru Kihara warned Beijing through diplomatic channels that conducting live-fire drills could jeopardize the safety of nearby civilian maritime navigation.

The drill comes amid strained relations following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent comments regarding Taiwan. Under Takaichi, Japan has accelerated its shift toward a more proactive defense posture, closely monitoring increased joint bomber flights and naval patrols by Chinese and Russian forces.