Russia-Japan tension escalates over airspace violations

On September 23, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida issued a "strong protest" to Moscow through diplomatic channels in response to the Russian IL-38 military aircraft's three-time violation of Japanese airspace. "Regrettably, it cannot be said that the Russian side has taken Japan's protests seriously," Hayashi said at a press conference, referring to Wednesday's statements from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During a press briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova noted that Japanese authorities "tried to protest this matter through diplomatic channels," but "Russia rejected this accusation as we have no information confirming its validity." Hayashi added that the government in Tokyo has once again informed Moscow of its position and has strongly urged them to prevent a recurrence of similar situations.

The IL-38 aircraft, which violated Japanese airspace, is a Soviet-made maritime patrol and anti-submarine aircraft. Russia primarily uses these machines for maritime surveillance and the detection and destruction of submarines. According to available data, Russia currently has about 20 IL-38 aircraft. These machines are used within the Russian armed forces to monitor and control activities in territorial and open waters and to perform combat missions aimed at neutralizing potential underwater threats.

The IL-38 aircraft are characterized by their versatility and are equipped with advanced submarine detection systems, including sonars and hydroacoustic buoys. They can operate in various weather conditions and conduct long-term patrols over vast maritime areas. These machines also have modern weaponry, including torpedoes and missiles, effectively neutralizing underwater threats.