Japan’s Self-Defense Force Captain Replaced After Accidental Invasion of Chinese Territorial Waters

Japan’s Nippon Keizai Shimbun reported that the captain of the Japan Self-Defense Force frigate ‘Suzutuki’ has been replaced, following an incident in which the vessel accidentally sailed through Chinese territorial waters without prior warning.

According to Japan’s Defense Minister, Minoru Kishiha, the captain was replaced in July, although the reason for the replacement was not clearly stated. However, it is believed to be a de facto dismissal.

The incident occurred last July, when the Suzutsuki frigate temporarily sailed through Chinese territorial waters without prior permission. International law recognizes the ‘right of innocent passage’ to pass through territorial waters as long as it does not harm the security of coastal states.

However, China’s domestic law requires prior permission for any vessel to pass through its territorial waters. The captain at the time of the incident had accidentally invaded Chinese territorial waters without knowing the exact location.

International Law and Territorial Waters

The ‘right of innocent passage’ is a principle of international law that allows vessels to pass through territorial waters as long as they do not harm the security of coastal states. However, China’s domestic law requires prior permission for any vessel to pass through its territorial waters.

Consequences of the Incident

The replacement of the captain is seen as a serious consequence of the incident, highlighting the importance of adhering to international law and respecting the territorial waters of other nations.

YTN Kim Se-ho (se-35@ytn.co.kr)