Japan’s Ministry of Defense has confirmed that a Russian Navy Vishnya-class intelligence-gathering ship entered its contiguous zones.
According to a statement from the Joint Staff Office, the vessel was observed operating around Yonaguni Island and Miyako Island between January 13 and 15, before sailing into the Pacific Ocean.
The ministry said that the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) conducted continuous monitoring throughout the ship’s passage. Surveillance was carried out by the destroyer Ikazuchi of the 1st Escort Division, along with P-1 maritime patrol aircraft from the 1st Air Patrol Squadron and P-3C aircraft from the 5th Air Patrol Squadron.
The Vishnya class is a Russian naval intelligence platform designed to collect communications and electronic signals. The vessels are equipped with multiple antenna arrays, radomes, and specialized electronic systems that support long-duration intelligence-gathering operations in contested or sensitive waters.
Recently, Japan has reported several similar operations by Russian and Chinese vessels near its islands. In a previous statement, the ministry said such activities are being closely monitored and that defense sectors remain on alert, ready to respond to any developments involving foreign ships in Japanese waters.
Photo: Japan Ministry of Defense. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
