China warns Japan's hypersonic, underwater drone plans threaten first island chain operations

China publicly criticized Japan's plans to arm submarine drones with long-range missiles and test hypersonic weapons in Australia, warning these capabilities could threaten PLA amphibious groups and surface combatants within the first island chain. Analysts suggest the moves could degrade PLA Navy operational flexibility in a Taiwan scenario. The development marks an escalation in regional military competition, with Japan expanding its strike capabilities beyond traditional defense posture.