On Monday, Japan reported its first violation of territorial airspace by a Chinese military plane, specifically a Y-9 reconnaissance aircraft.

The incident, which occurred over the Danjo Islands, prompted Japan to scramble fighter jets in response.

Japanese government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed that the government would address the incident and summoned the acting Chinese ambassador to lodge a formal protest.

Analysts have warned that incidents involving Japanese and Chinese forces, particularly near the disputed Senkaku Islands, could escalate into broader conflict.

This airspace violation comes amid rising tensions between Japan and China over territorial claims, especially concerning the Senkaku Islands, known as Diaoyu in China.

In response to increasing assertiveness from the Chinese military, Japan is enhancing its defenses in southwestern regions and around strategic remote islands.

Experts suggest that the Y-9 aircraft was likely probing Japan's air defense network for electronic intelligence, gathering information such as radar signals.

Despite the incursion, Japan's Ministry of Defense reported that no confrontations occurred with the Chinese aircraft, and no weapons were fired.

In response to the incident, China claimed it was unintentional and emphasized that it does not intend to invade other countries' airspace.

China has been increasingly assertive regarding its territorial claims, particularly over Taiwan and in the South China Sea, raising concerns among its neighbors.

Japan is part of the Quad alliance with the U.S., Australia, and India, which aims to counter China's growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

As tensions rise, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is scheduled to visit Beijing to discuss managing bilateral tensions.