A Canadian CP-140 Aurora patrol aircraft operating over the East China Sea is conducting surveillance under Operation NEON, a multinational mission enforcing U.N. sanctions against North Korea.

Flying from Japan’s Kadena Air Base, the crew documents vessels suspected of illicit trade supporting Pyongyang’s weapons programs and shares intelligence with the U.N.

During a recent mission observed by CBS News, Chinese fighter jets repeatedly intercepted the Canadian aircraft, at times coming within 200 feet.

Canadian officials said the encounters, though tense, remained “professional and safe.”

The operation highlights growing regional tensions as China and Russia continue to support North Korea economically, while international efforts to pressure Pyongyang over its nuclear ambitions appear increasingly ineffective.