Society

Chinese military activity spurs Japan to move radar unit closer to Taiwan, Senkaku islands

Apr 04 (stripes.com) - The Japan Air Self-Defense Force has repositioned a mobile radar unit on its southern island chain to strengthen defenses due to increased Chinese activity in the region.

Approximately 20 members of the 53rd Guard Team accompanied a TPS-102 radar unit to Yonaguni Island on Friday, according to a Self-Defense Force spokesman. The island, about 70 miles off Taiwan’s eastern coast, is Japan’s westernmost territory.

The troops relocated from Miyako Island, about 140 miles to the east, the spokesman said Monday.

The move will “strengthen the defense of our country at a time when neighboring countries are increasing their activities around our country,” the spokesman said, referring to China, whose coast guard frequently enters waters claimed by Japan around the Senkaku Islands, about 125 miles north of Yonaguni.

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