China has accused Japan of exaggerating the so-called “radar illumination” incident for ulterior motives. A spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry made the allegation during a recent press briefing.

Earlier, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi told an emergency press conference that a J-15 fighter jet from the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning had twice “illuminated” a Japan Self-Defense Forces F-15 over waters southeast of Okinawa. He described the action as “dangerous and beyond what is acceptable for ensuring safe flight operations,” prompting a strong protest from Tokyo.

Responding to the claim, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said China has already made its position clear. He argued that it is Japan’s frequent close-range surveillance and interference during China’s routine military activities that has created major maritime and air security risks. The Japanese account, he said, is “unacceptable to China.”

The spokesperson added that Japan is attempting to mislead the international community, and China “firmly opposes” this narrative. He described the actions of the Japanese aircraft—interfering with China’s normal military exercises—as irresponsible political maneuvering. He urged Japan to immediately stop such activities.