China has issued a stern warning to Japan over its recent military expansion plans, questioning whether Tokyo is deliberately escalating regional tensions to justify bolstering its defense capabilities. The remarks come amid reports of Japan’s Defense Ministry signing a land lease agreement to deploy a mobile surveillance radar unit on Okinawa’s easternmost island, explicitly aimed at monitoring Chinese military activities.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed the development during a press briefing on December 19, 2025, emphasizing that such actions “risk destabilizing regional peace and security.” He urged Japan to “refrain from provocative maneuvers” and prioritize dialogue to address security concerns. The radar deployment, positioned strategically near key shipping lanes, would enable real-time tracking of Chinese aircraft carriers and naval movements in the East China Sea.
Analysts suggest the move reflects Japan’s growing alignment with U.S. strategic interests in Asia, particularly as China expands its maritime presence. However, Beijing maintains that its military exercises are defensive and compliant with international law. The escalation underscores broader anxieties in Asia-Pacific security dynamics, with stakeholders closely watching how cross-strait and regional relationships evolve in 2026.
