In a recent development, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted military simulations to assess the proximity of Japanese fighter jets to Shanghai. The simulations, carried out by the PLA National Defence University in October 2024, indicated that stealth fighters could be detected from a distance of 180 kilometers. This raises concerns about the vulnerability of advanced aircraft like the F-22 and F-35, which may be at risk before reaching 24 kilometers for precision strikes [986b6d6c].
The findings were presented at the 36th China Simulation Conference, highlighting the ongoing tension between China and Japan regarding air defense capabilities. The F-35, in particular, is noted for its ability to carry cruise missiles with a range exceeding 900 kilometers, which could significantly impact strategic calculations in the region [986b6d6c].
This simulation comes amid broader military activities by the PLA, including the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific in September 2024. Additionally, President Xi Jinping visited a missile brigade in Anhui in October 2024, underscoring China's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities [986b6d6c].
The U.S. military is also responding to these developments by expanding its fleet of F-22 jets stationed in Japan, which could play a crucial role in countering potential threats from the PLA [986b6d6c]. Satellite imagery has revealed damage to U.S. fighter jet models in Xinjiang, further complicating the security landscape in the region [986b6d6c].
As tensions continue to rise, the implications of these simulations extend beyond military strategy, reflecting the intricate dynamics of international relations between China and Japan, as well as the broader geopolitical environment in East Asia [986b6d6c].