“The radar illumination in this case is a dangerous act that goes beyond the range necessary for safe aircraft flight,” she said. “It is extremely unfortunate that such an incident occurred. We have lodged a strong protest with the Chinese side and have made a stern request to prevent a recurrence.”

The prime minister stressed that Japan would continue to safeguard its sovereignty and closely monitor activity in the surrounding sea and airspace. No damage or injuries were reported.

Japan lodged protests after reports of two separate incidents on Saturday, in which Chinese J-15 fighter jets launched from the aircraft carrier Liaoning and allegedly directed their radars at SDF aircraft operating in international waters southeast of Okinawa.

China rejected the allegations, accusing Japanese forces of “deliberately intruding” into an area where the Chinese Navy had publicly announced training exercises east of the Miyako Strait.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, following recent comments by Takaichi suggesting Japan could take military action if China were to attack Taiwan . Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory under the “one-China” principle, has sharply criticised the remarks.