China's five patrol vessels continue to carry out surveillance of waters around the Diaoyu Islands. Japanese media reports that Japan's Coast Guard has decided to step up its own patrol of the disputed area.

According to the Japan Coast Guard, four of China's Marine Surveillance ships and one fishing administration ship entered the 24 nautical mile zone around the Diaoyu Islands. It's the 18th day that China's fleet is carrying out routine patrols in the area.

In response, the Japan Coast Guard has said it will increase its own patrols next year by at least 70 percent. Reports say Japan's Coast Guard plans to use this year's budget reserve to purchase patrol ships with enhanced capabilities, with the earliest purchase expected to be in 2014.

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