South Korea scrambled fighter jets on Saturday after more than 10 Russian and Chinese military aircraft entered its air defense identification zone (ADIZ) over the Sea of Japan and south of the peninsula.
The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that the foreign military planes entered and exited the zone without violating the nation's sovereign airspace.
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The military conducted tactical maneuvers while monitoring the approaching aircraft.
"The South Korean military detected the Chinese and Russian aircraft before their entry into the zone and deployed air force fighter jets to counter any eventuality," the Joint Chiefs of Staff stated.
No incidents were reported during the incursion, which occurs amid increasing joint military patrols by Beijing and Moscow.
Neither China nor Russia has commented on the specific operations within the maritime boundary.
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Drone Expansion Plans
Amid these regional tensions, the South Korean Defense Ministry separately announced plans on Friday to drastically expand its drone and counter-drone capabilities along frontline units.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back initially announced a production target of 110,000 military drones by 2029, which the ministry later adjusted to approximately 60,000 units, including 11,000 scheduled for deployment in 2026.
"Drones must no longer be equipment reserved for a limited number of units, but a universal combat tool," said Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back.
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The planned military unmanned systems are destined for the army, navy, and air force, intended to be utilized by frontline troops as a personal secondary weapon.
