In response to Chinese naval activities near Minami-Torishima, Japan's Ministry of Defense has decided to deploy surveillance radar on the island to strengthen monitoring of Chinese aircraft.

Reports indicate that the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning recently entered Japan's exclusive economic zone, while another carrier, Shandong, is conducting training in the Pacific. With security threats increasing, Japan has decided to enhance its defense measures around Minami-Torishima.

In its 2022 defense build-up plan, Japan clearly stated the intention to deploy mobile radar on remote islands in the Pacific. Currently, there are few radar installations in the Pacific aside from Iwo Jima, leaving the air defense system vulnerable; thus, this plan is critical for strengthening defenses.

Additionally, the Defense Ministry plans to establish a test site for surface-to-ship missiles on the island to support the capabilities of the Self-Defense Forces. Faced with the activity of two Chinese aircraft carriers, a senior official expressed concerns that their operational range might expand, necessitating urgent improvements in defense to ensure national security.