Official statements from Japan's Defense Ministry, credible news agencies

Japan Scrambles Jets After Russian Aircraft Violates Hokkaido Airspace Three Times

Sep 23, 2024, 11:12 AM

Japan's Defense Minister Minoru Kihara confirmed that a Russian Il-38 patrol aircraft violated Japanese airspace over Rebun Island, Hokkaido, on three separate occasions on Monday morning. In response, Japan's Self-Defense Force scrambled fighter jets and fired warning flares, as well as issuing radio warnings. This incident marks the first confirmed airspace incursion by Russia since 2019. Japan has lodged a serious protest to the Russian government through diplomatic channels.