Countering China, Japanese Self-Defense Force frigate passes through Taiwan Strait for the first time

On September 25, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force frigate “Shiranui” made a historic first passage through the Taiwan Strait, marking a pivotal moment since the Self-Defense Force’s establishment. Japanese media suggests that this bold move underscores Tokyo’s commitment to countering the increasingly aggressive actions of the Chinese military, which many in Japan view as a direct threat to national sovereignty.

According to a report from Yomiuri Shimbun, Japan has traditionally navigated the passage of its naval vessels through the Taiwan Strait with a degree of caution, aiming to prevent any escalation of military tensions. However, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has voiced a rising sense of urgency regarding Japan’s security landscape, arguing that the nation’s previous strategies are inadequate for maintaining peace.

In light of these developments, reports have emerged indicating that Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered preparations for a potential invasion of Taiwan by 2027. This has coincided with increased military activity from Chinese forces, which many interpret as part of this overarching plan.

Japanese government sources stated that the “Shiranui” commenced its southward journey through the Taiwan Strait from the East China Sea in the morning of September 25, concluding its passage later that same evening. It’s worth noting that naval vessels from Australia and New Zealand also traversed the Taiwan Strait around this time, highlighting a significant moment of international naval solidarity.

In a demonstration of cooperation, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force is set to conduct joint exercises with the Australian and New Zealand navies in the South China Sea on September 26.

Military activities by China around Japan have escalated since August. For instance, on August 26, a Chinese Y-9 reconnaissance aircraft breached Japanese airspace near the Senkaku Islands. Furthermore, on September 18, the Liaoning aircraft carrier, along with two other Chinese vessels, operated in waters close to Japanese territorial limits.

On September 23, a Russian anti-submarine patrol aircraft violated Japanese airspace near Rebun Island in Hokkaido three times, prompting Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force to issue flares as a warning. Japan condemned these actions by Russia as provocative and registered a strong protest.

Some analysts propose that the increasing tensions from China and Russia may be testing Japan’s responses during this “political vacuum” period. This follows Prime Minister Kishida’s announcement that he will not seek re-election as head of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

Looking ahead, China is expected to respond to the passage of the Japanese frigate through the Taiwan Strait, potentially implementing countermeasures. The newly elected leader of the LDP, who will also serve as Japan’s next prime minister, will be confronted with immediate challenges regarding the nation’s stance on China.