Japan Observes Chinese Spy Vessel Near Disputed Isles

Japan is monitoring the waters near the disputed islands of South China Sea after it found out a Chinese naval intelligence ship operating in a new area for the first time.

A P-3C patrol aircraft observed the Dongdiao-class intelligence vessel near territorial waters of the Senkaku Islands, Japan's Defense Ministry said late Thursday.

The Senkaku Islands were administered by Japan, whereas China claims them as the Diaoyus, various media reported today.

Japan and China have strong disagreement over ownership of the uninhabited islets, as Chinese coast guard ships and aircraft have approached them often to back up the Beijing's claims and test Japan's response.

The ship repeatedly moved in the area until Thursday evening before departing, without breaching Japan's 12-nautical-mile territorial waters, the ministry statement said.

The ship's movement were "unusual” and they made "repeated eastward and westward moves in one day". Japanese defence minister Gen Nakatani said at a regular press conference Friday.

Japan will continue to monitor the Chinese navy and "make utmost efforts in patrolling the sea and air surrounding Japan", Nakatani added.