Japan Reports Record Scrambles Against Chinese and Russian Aircraft in 2024

A sharp rise in drone interceptions and joint military drills highlights escalating tensions in Northeast Asia.

Japan scrambled fighter jets 704 times during fiscal year 2024, marking a 35-incident increase from the previous year.
Chinese aircraft accounted for 464 of the scrambles, while Russian aircraft were involved in 237 incidents, reflecting heightened military activity near Japan.
Interceptions of Chinese drones surged from 8 cases to 23, with 30 drones intercepted in total, showcasing China's growing use of unmanned aerial systems.
Joint military drills between Chinese and Russian forces, including large-scale naval exercises, underscore deepening military ties between the two nations.
The uptick in aerial and maritime activity aligns with broader regional tensions linked to U.S. alliances and containment strategies in the Asia-Pacific.