The Self-Defense Forces will be able to use weaponry to down balloons and drones violating Japanese airspace if such objects pose a safety threat to civilian aircraft, according to new criteria approved by the ruling parties.
The Defense Ministry presented its proposal to the Liberal Democratic Party and its junior coalition partner Komeito on Thursday, with the aim of strengthening the SDF's ability to respond to such situations. The proposal was approved by the parties the same day.
At least three objects thought to be Chinese unmanned reconnaissance balloons have intruded into Japanese airspace since 2019.
