Chinese coast guard vessels were tracked transiting a key waterway between Japan's main islands during a deployment in the North Pacific, according to a Newsweek map.

When reached for comment, Japan 's Defense Ministry said on Monday in a statement that the Self-Defense Forces conduct round-the-clock surveillance in major channels.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Why It Matters

China operates the world's largest maritime law enforcement fleet, with more than 150 patrol vessels capable of operating far from the country's coastline and conducting missions lasting a month, according to a Pentagon report.

Like its naval counterpart, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy, the coast guard has gradually expanded its presence and acti

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