Japan calls China-Russia bomber drills near its airspace ‘a show of force’

 Japan condemned joint Chinese-Russian bomber flights near its airspace, calling them an expansion of military activity and “a matter of grave concern.” Officials said Russian Tu-95s and Chinese H-6s carried out an eight-hour patrol with fighter escorts between Okinawa and Miyako, prompting Japan to scramble jets. Tokyo said it has lodged diplomatic protests with both countries, warning the operations were clearly intended as a show of force. The flights come amid rising tensions following Japan’s remarks that it could respond to any Chinese action against Taiwan that threatens Japanese security.