24 January 2002 - it is reported that the Chinese Navy has been intensifying its activities in waters adjacent to Japan. Since 1999, the Chinese Navy held six exercises with a total of 41 warships. In May 1999, thirteen Chinese warships, including a frigate and four guided missile boats, operated about 110km north of Senkaku Islands, well within the Japanese EEZ. This was the first time the Chinese Navy left its traditional area of operation along their coast.

In July 1999, ten warships including three guided missile destroyers and a submarine rescue vessel, conducted ASW exercises in the same area. There obviously were submarines participating.

Again in March, April and May there were exercises with warships including guided missile destroyers, LSTs and patrol boats. Japan is nervous about China operating so close to their coastline.