Japan Scrambles Jets as Russian Bombers Fly Near Airspace, Heightening Regional Tensions

Japanese Air Self-Defense Force Responds to Russian Aircraft

On Friday, October 24, 2025, Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) scrambled fighter jets after detecting multiple Russian warplanes, including nuclear-capable Tu-95 'Bear' strategic bombers and Su-35 fighter jets, flying along the edge of its airspace. The Russian aircraft approached Japan's west coast over the Sea of Japan, passing near Sado Island before turning north, according to Japan's Ministry of Defense. While the Russian planes did not violate Japanese territorial airspace, the incident prompted an immediate response from Tokyo, highlighting ongoing concerns about regional security.

Official Statements and Context

Japan's Ministry of Defense confirmed the deployment of its fighter jets to monitor the Russian aircraft. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi issued a strong statement, noting, 'Russia conducts daily military operations around our country while invading Ukraine - this is the reality.' He emphasized Japan's vigilance in the face of such activities. Hours before the incident, Japan's new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, delivered her first speech to Parliament since taking office, pledging to accelerate the nation's defense buildup. She cited the military activities of Russia, China, and North Korea as a 'serious concern.'

In response to the Japanese actions, Russia's Defence Ministry, as reported by RIA news agency, stated that its bombers were on a 'routine patrol flight' over neutral waters and were escorted by foreign jets. The Tu-95 'Bear' bomber, a Cold War-era aircraft, remains a key component of Russia's strategic deterrent capabilities, capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Pattern of Increased Military Activity

This latest encounter is part of a broader pattern of increased Russian military activity near Japan. The JASDF routinely dispatches fighter jets to monitor and ensure that foreign aircraft do not violate its airspace, maintaining the country's defensive readiness and air sovereignty. For instance, on January 30, 2025, two Tu-95 bombers, escorted by Su-35 and Su-30SM fighters, conducted an eight-hour flight over the Sea of Okhotsk and Sea of Japan, leading to another scramble by JASDF F-15J fighters.

Furthermore, in September 2024, a Russian Il-38 maritime patrol aircraft violated Japanese airspace three times near Rebun Island, Hokkaido, prompting Japan to scramble F-15 and F-35 fighter jets and use flares as a warning for the first time. These incidents contribute to Japan's heightened alert status, with the Japan Joint Staff Office reporting 265 scrambles in the first half of Fiscal Year 2025 (April 1 to September 30), 58 of which were in response to Russian aircraft.

Conclusion

The repeated presence of Russian military aircraft near Japanese airspace underscores the persistent geopolitical friction in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan's Ministry of Defense has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and monitoring any potential threats. As regional power dynamics continue to evolve, Japan's robust air defense responses and ongoing efforts to strengthen its military capabilities are expected to remain central to its national security strategy.