Russia’s recent military exercises in the Sea of Japan have raised significant concerns for Japan, exacerbating existing geopolitical tensions and prompting a reevaluation of regional security strategies.
Purpose of Russia’s War Games in the Sea of Japan
The Sea of Japan has become a focal point for Russia’s military demonstrations, with exercises involving submarine-launched cruise missiles and artillery drills. For instance, in March 2025, a submarine from Russia’s Pacific Fleet conducted drills, launching cruise missiles at sea and coastal targets.
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Power Projection: By conducting high-profile military exercises, Russia aims to assert its naval dominance and signal its capability to influence regional security dynamics.
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Deterrence: Demonstrating military readiness serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries, showcasing Russia’s preparedness to defend its interests in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Geopolitical Messaging: These exercises convey Russia’s strategic intentions to both regional actors and global powers, emphasizing its role as a key player in international security affairs.
Purpose of the Open Display
The overt exhibition of advanced military technology during these exercises serves several objectives:
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Technological Demonstration: Showcasing modern weaponry highlights Russia’s advancements in military technology, reinforcing its position as a formidable military power.
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Strategic Signaling: The display acts as a warning to other nations, indicating Russia’s capability and willingness to employ advanced systems in defense of its interests.
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Domestic Assurance: Public demonstrations of military strength can bolster national pride and assure the domestic populace of the government’s commitment to national security.
Disputes Between Japan and Russia
The territorial dispute over the Kuril Islands, known as the Northern Territories in Japan, remains a significant point of contention. This disagreement has prevented the two nations from signing a formal peace treaty since World War II. In January 2024, Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chair of Russia’s Security Council, stated that Japan must drop its territorial claims if it wishes to conclude a peace treaty. Additionally, Japan’s support for Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion has further strained relations.
WATCH VIDEO: Russia’s Varyag Flexes Muscle in Sea of Japan
Increasing Tensions
Yes, Russia’s military activities in the Sea of Japan have heightened regional tensions. Incidents such as the violation of Japanese airspace by Russian reconnaissance aircraft in September 2024, which prompted Japan to deploy fighter jets and fire warning flares, exemplify the growing strain. Moreover, the joint naval exercises between Russia and China in the region signal a deepening military collaboration that poses strategic challenges for Japan and its allies.
Japan’s Perspective and Potential Responses
Japan views Russia’s military exercises as provocative actions that undermine regional stability. The Japanese government has expressed strong regret over airspace violations and has lodged formal protests through diplomatic channels. In response, Japan may consider the following measures:
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Enhanced Defense Posture: Strengthening its Self-Defense Forces and increasing surveillance capabilities to better monitor and respond to regional threats.
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Diplomatic Engagement: Pursuing dialogue with Russia to address security concerns while simultaneously reinforcing alliances with other regional powers and the United States.
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Economic Measures: Implementing or supporting sanctions aimed at deterring aggressive actions and signaling disapproval of Russia’s military posturing.
Multifaceted strategy
Russia’s military exercises in the Sea of Japan serve as a multifaceted strategy encompassing power projection, deterrence, and geopolitical messaging. While these activities underscore Russia’s military capabilities, they also exacerbate existing disputes and elevate regional tensions. Japan faces the complex challenge of responding to these developments in a manner that safeguards its national interests, maintains regional stability, and upholds international norms.
References
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Reuters. “Russian Navy submarine launches missiles in Sea of Japan drills, TASS agency reports.” March 26, 2025.
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Reuters. “Russia to Japan: Drop territorial claim if you want a peace treaty.” January 30, 2024.
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The Guardian. “Japanese fighter jets fire flares at Russian aircraft for first time in airspace violation.” September 24, 2024.
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USNI News. “Chinese, Russian Warships to Drill in the Sea of Japan.” September 9, 2024.
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Newsweek. “Chinese and Russian Militaries Detected Near US Allies.” March 2025.
