Japan’s defence chief criticises China over submarine near disputed islands

"Operating a submerged submarine close to another country's territory goes against the norms of international rules," Minister of Defence Itsunori Onodera told reporters.

By: Reuters | Tokyo | Published: January 15, 2018 1:55 pm

Image for representation. REUTERS

Japan’s defence minister criticised China on Monday for sailing an advanced stealthy nuclear submarine close to disputed islands claimed by Japan and China, saying the action had stoked tension. The submarine, which Japan detected in the East China Sea, was a 110 metre-long Shang-class vessel, which is able to dive deeper and for longer than older boats and is armed with torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, according to Japan’s Ministry of Defence, reports news agency Reuters.