China Carries Out Combat Readiness Patrols in South China Sea

(MENAFN) China’s armed forces carried out naval and aerial combat readiness patrols over the contested waters of the South China Sea earlier this week, according to state-run media reports.

The exercises took place on Sunday and Monday, as confirmed by Zhai Shichen, spokesperson for the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army. He said the operations were conducted in areas of the South China Sea under dispute.

Addressing recent regional developments, Zhai stated, "The Philippines co-opted countries outside the region to organize the so-called joint patrols, which had undermined peace and stability in the region," said Zhai.

He further emphasized Beijing’s stance, warning that the Chinese military would act decisively to defend what it considers its sovereign territory and maritime interests while maintaining regional stability.

In the previous month, Chinese forces had also undertaken similar "combat readiness" drills involving both naval vessels and military aircraft in the same disputed waters.

Tensions between China and Philippines have escalated repeatedly in recent years due to overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea.

MENAFN17022026000045017640ID1110751097