Fact Check: Chinese carriers entered Japan's exclusive economic zone for the first time.

Fact Check: "Chinese carriers entered Japan's exclusive economic zone for the first time."

What We Know

On June 7, 2025, the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning was reported to have entered Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) for the first time. The carrier was observed approximately 185 miles southwest of Minamitorishima, Japan's easternmost territory, which is significant due to its strategic location and the resources within its EEZ, estimated at around 166,000 square miles (Stars and Stripes). This event marks a notable escalation in China's naval operations, as it is the first confirmed instance of a Chinese aircraft carrier conducting activities in this area (Reuters).

The Japanese Ministry of Defense confirmed that the Liaoning was accompanied by two guided-missile cruisers and a fast combat support ship, and that Japanese surveillance had documented numerous take-offs and landings of aircraft from the carrier (NHK World). This maneuver is seen as part of China's broader strategy to enhance its naval capabilities and assert its presence in the Pacific region (Marine Insight).

Analysis

The claim that Chinese carriers entered Japan's EEZ for the first time is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The reports from Japan's Defense Ministry and various news outlets consistently confirm that the Liaoning was the first Chinese aircraft carrier to operate in this specific part of Japan's EEZ (Defense Post, Taipei Times).

The credibility of these sources is bolstered by the involvement of official military statements and the corroboration of events by multiple independent news organizations. For instance, the Japanese Defense Minister's comments regarding the unprecedented nature of this event lend weight to the claim, as they reflect official government acknowledgment of the situation (Channel News Asia).

However, it's important to note that while the Chinese government has characterized these naval operations as routine training exercises compliant with international law, the timing and location of the maneuvers have raised concerns among Japanese officials about potential military intentions (Marine Insight, NHK World).

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that Chinese carriers entered Japan's exclusive economic zone for the first time is accurate. The evidence from various reliable sources confirms that the Liaoning was indeed the first Chinese aircraft carrier to conduct operations in this area, marking a significant development in regional maritime dynamics. The coordinated reports from Japan's military and independent news agencies provide a strong basis for this conclusion.

Sources

1. Japan sights two Chinese aircraft carriers in Pacific for first ...
2. Chinese aircraft carrier enters Japan's easternmost EEZ for first time ...
3. Japan publishes routes of Chinese aircraft carriers operating around country
4. China Deploys 2 Aircraft Carriers Into Pacific For First Time, Japan ...
5. Chinese Aircraft Carrier Enters Japan's Economic Waters: Tokyo
6. Chinese carrier group entered Japanese waters - Taipei Times
7. In rare move, Japan releases map showing Chinese ...
8. Two Chinese aircraft carriers seen in Pacific for first time: Japan