Why are Russian jets flying over Japan?
Russia has deployed MiG-31 interceptor jets armed with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles on patrol flights over international waters near Japan, in a move that has drawn attention for both its timing and its messaging.
The Russian defence ministry confirmed the flights, releasing video footage of the aircraft operating over the Sea of Japan.
Moscow described the mission as routine, saying the aircraft carried out scheduled patrols and training exercises, including aerial refuelling, in full compliance with international airspace rules.
The flights took place outside Japanese territorial airspace, and no official response has yet been issued by Tokyo on whether assets were scrambled to monitor the activity.
What happened
According to the Russian defence ministry, MiG-31I aircraft equipped with Kinzhal hypersonic missiles conducted patrol flights over neutral waters in the Sea of Japan. Crews practised in-flight refuelling as part of the exercise. The ministry characterised the mission as a standard operation by the Aerospace Forces.
Why it matters
The patrols were disclosed publicly by Moscow — an unusual step — and occurred just ahead of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to the United States. Analysts say the timing suggests the flights may have been intended to signal Russia’s military capabilities and presence in the region.
The capability
The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal is an air-launched hypersonic missile, reportedly derived from the Iskander short-range ballistic missile. Russia says it can reach speeds of up to Mach 10 and strike targets at distances of around 2,000 kilometres, with the ability to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. However, some Western experts have questioned the extent of its hypersonic performance, noting interceptions during the war in Ukraine.
Relationship under strain
Russian and Chinese military activity near Japan’s airspace regularly triggers monitoring operations by Japanese forces. Recent surveillance missions have included Japanese aircraft tracking foreign naval movements near the archipelago. Relations between Tokyo and Moscow remain strained, particularly over a long-running territorial dispute and Japan’s support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.
The bigger picture
Some analysts view the flights as a demonstration that Russia can sustain a military presence in key maritime corridors linking Northeast Asia to the Pacific. The move also comes amid shifting global deployments, with the United States engaged in other conflicts, potentially altering regional security dynamics.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
