Japan analysing previous aerial objects after China balloon

TOKYO – Japan said Thursday it was coordinating with Washington as it analysed unidentified aerial objects spotted over the country in past years after US forces shot down an alleged Chinese surveillance balloon.

“We are communicating with the United States but we decline to comment on diplomatic exchanges,” chief government spokesman Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters Thursday.

“Having said that, we are analysing objects observed above Japan in June 2020 and September 2021, including any links to the case in the United States.”