It was always inevitable, but now it’s real, if not yet official:
Recently, Japanese vessels and aircraft have provoked and harassed a Chinese naval formation carrying out routine training missions. The Global Times obtained an exclusive audio recording in which Japan’s Self-Defense Forces referred to itself as the “Japan Navy.” In response, the Chinese navy task group has taken firm stance and corrected Japan’s mistaken rhetoric.
“Chinese Navy task group, this is ‘Japan Navy’. We are conducting lawful activities in the international airspace in accordance with the international law. Out.” according to the audio.
In response, the Chinese side made correction: “Japanese aircraft, this is China Navy task group. Your so-called ‘Japan Navy’ has violated your constitution. You can only keep Self-Defense forces. Pay attention to your words. Over.”
However, the Japanese side refused to correct the mistake, and claimed that “China Navy task group, this is ‘Japan Navy’. We are keeping safe distance in accordance with international law and practice. Out.”
The Chinese side then responded that “Japanese aircraft, this is China Navy task group. Warning: in case of misunderstanding and miscalculation, stop your action and leave immediately. Over.”
We all know it’s “the Japanese Navy”. And it’s about time. Of course, the official change probably won’t come until just before the Japanese throw off Clown World control and switch sides to become allies with China.
Which, of course, sounds far-fetched, but it’s something that I nevertheless anticipate.