Japan and China trade blame after jets square off over Pacific

"Tokyo and Beijing have exchanged accusations after their fighter jets had at least two close calls amid Chinese naval drills.
Japan was the first to report the incident, stating that Chinese J-15 fighter jets locked their fire control radars on Japanese F-15J warplanes on at least two occasions on Saturday. The

confrontation occurred over international waters to the southeast of Okinawa, the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.
“These radar illuminations are a dangerous act that went beyond what is necessary for the safe flight of aircraft,” Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters on Sunday, adding that Tokyo had already lodged a complaint over what she called “extremely regrettable” actions.
Beijing has rejected the allegations, stating that Japanese aircraft repeatedly approached and harassed the Chinese Navy while it was conducting previously announced carrier exercises in the area.
“We solemnly demand that the Japanese side immediately stop slandering and smearing and strictly restrain front-line actions,” Chinese Navy spokesperson Colonel Wang Xuemeng said. He cautioned that China would “take necessary measures… to resolutely safeguard its own security and legitimate rights and interests.” RT