Tokyo's defense hike may boost tensions

China objects to infringement of sovereignty by aircraft and vessels

Japan's new hawkish cabinet is toughening its military posture to confront China regarding the row over the Diaoyu Islands, a move observers said is testing China's bottom line and may prompt further escalation of tension.

Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera is planning to visit military bases in southwestern Japan's Okinawa prefecture as part of Tokyo's show of toughness. Onodera, during the trip, may encourage members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces involved in missions regarding territorial rows, Japan's Jiji Press News Agency reported on Wednesday.