Chinese Navy accuses Japan of interfering with training operations

A Chinese military spokesperson has urged Japan to cease the use of smear tactics, while accusing Japanese military aircraft of repeatedly disrupting training operations east of the Miyako Strait.

The remarks of Wang Xuemeng, a spokesman for the People's Liberation Army Navy, were carried in a statement relating to the CNS Liaoning aircraft carrier group and far-sea training it has been engaged in.

Sunday's statement said that the Liaoning carrier group had conducted carrier-based fighter jet training in designated sea and air areas east of the Miyako Strait, and that the training zones were announced in advance.

However, Japanese Self-Defense Force aircraft "repeatedly approached and disrupted" the PLA Navy's training airspace, seriously affecting normal operations and posing a serious threat to flight safety, Wang said.

The spokesman added that Japan's related hypes were "completely inconsistent with the facts" and urged Japan to immediately stop smearing China and to strictly rein in front-line forces.

The Chinese Navy will take necessary measures in accordance with the law to firmly safeguard its security and lawful rights and interests, Wang said.