BEIJING -- China and Russia began joint military sea and air exercises in the Sea of Japan on Thursday, looking to rattle the U.S., Japan and South Korea as they ramp up their deterrence efforts.
More than 10 vessels had assembled in the central Sea of Japan for the exercises on Tuesday, according to China's Defense Ministry, including Chinese destroyers and frigates and Russian anti-submarine ships. Over 30 aircraft have been deployed, among them fighter jets, early warning aircraft and transport planes.
