Key facts
- A defense hotline between Japan and China, established in March 2023, has been used only once for a ceremonial call.
- Japan and China have differing protocols regarding the use and response times for the hotline.
- The hotline was intended to prevent accidental military clashes between the two nations.
- Japanese attempts to use the hotline during recent military incidents were reportedly not met with a response from China.
- Concerns exist about the effectiveness of the communication mechanism in building bilateral trust.
A direct communication hotline established between Japan and China in March 2023 to prevent accidental military clashes has seen minimal use, with only a single ceremonial call between the defense ministers recorded. Sources suggest differing protocols and response time expectations are hindering the hotline's effectiveness, leaving both nations exposed to the risk of unintended collisions.
The Maritime and Aerial Communication Mechanism, of which the hotline is a part, aims to allow senior defense officials to communicate directly to avoid misinterpretations. However, the dedicated line has remained silent during key incidents, including a destroyer's brief incursion into Chinese waters and close approaches by Chinese military aircraft to Japanese jets over international waters.
Japanese officials reportedly attempted to use the hotline during these events, but China did not respond. According to sources, China requires preparation time for such exchanges, and working-level personnel may lack the authority to answer calls without diplomatic arrangements. A provision in the establishment agreement allows for up to 48 hours of standby time, which Japan argues defeats the purpose of a rapid communication tool.
Concerns are growing within the Japanese government about the hotline's functionality and its role in building bilateral trust. The lack of effective communication was highlighted again following an incident where Chinese military aircraft allegedly directed radar at Japanese Self-Defense Forces jets, underscoring the importance of a stable communication channel amid ongoing military activities near sensitive areas.