Japan condemned an unprecedented violation of its airspace by a Chinese military aircraft as a serious threat to its security.

The incursion, involving a Y-9 surveillance plane, marked the first confirmed breach of Japanese airspace by a Chinese military aircraft.

The aircraft entered Japanese airspace for about two minutes near the Danjo Islands, prompting Japan to scramble fighter jets.

Japan’s government lodged a firm protest with China, while officials suggested the incident might have been an attempt to provoke Japan or gather intelligence, The Guardian has reported.

The violation occurred amid escalating regional tensions, particularly around the disputed Senkaku Islands, claimed by both Japan and China.

Written by B.C. Begley