Chinese Military Warns and Drives Away Philippine Aircraft

China’s military reported that it warned and expelled three Philippine aircraft that allegedly intruded into the airspace near the Spratly Islands. The Southern Theatre Command accused the Philippines of attempting to assert “illegal claims” and stated that such provocations are bound to fail.

Philippine Government Denounces China’s Actions

The Philippine government expressed strong opposition to the incident, describing it as unjustified and reckless. Officials stated that the aircraft were conducting a routine maritime patrol within their sovereign airspace. In response, the Philippines plans to file a formal diplomatic protest against China.

Previous Encounters and Escalating Tensions

This latest confrontation follows another incident in which a Chinese navy helicopter flew within 10 feet of a Philippine patrol plane near the Scarborough Shoal. The encounter lasted for 30 minutes, raising concerns about the increasing frequency of such close encounters in the South China Sea.

U.S. Condemnation and Defense Commitments

The United States has condemned China’s actions, calling them dangerous and coercive. U.S. officials reaffirmed their commitment to defending the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty if an attack occurs in the disputed waters.

Ongoing South China Sea Dispute

The South China Sea remains a hotspot for territorial disputes involving China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. Despite a 2016 arbitration ruling rejecting China’s broad territorial claims, Beijing continues to assert sovereignty over most of the region, leading to frequent diplomatic and military confrontations.