Japan warns China over laser target lock-ons

Published on 06/02/2013 00:00

Japan has accused Chinese navy vessels of locking a weapons-targeting radar on a Japanese destroyer and helicopter amid escalating territorial disputes between the two powers.

Japanese defence minister Itsunori Onodera yesterday accused Chinese navy vessels of using the weapons radar in two incidents last month. He said it happened in the East China Sea, suggesting it was near disputed islands controlled by Japan but also claimed by China. He did not give an exact location.

Mr Onodera said the action could have led to a dangerous situation.

No shots were fired.