China-
In a significant move, the Chinese military has, for the first time, conducted patrols over the South China Sea using its bomber aircraft. The bombers flew in formation, demonstrating their surveillance and operational capabilities. This action was a direct response to joint naval patrols conducted by the Philippines with the United States and Japan.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its own, despite overlapping claims from the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The strategic waterway is a vital artery for international trade.
A “First-of-its-Kind” Patrol
According to the state-run Global Times, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command announced that it conducted this patrol with bombers amid the Philippines’ ‘joint patrols,’ calling it a “first-of-its-kind” mission. The two-day maritime exercise between the US, Japan, and the Philippines ran from Friday to Saturday.
A Stern Warning from Beijing
Senior Colonel Tian Junli, a spokesperson for the Southern Theater Command, stated in a release that the Philippines is “colluding with external forces” in joint patrols, which “undermine regional stability.”
“We sternly warn the Philippines to immediately stop its provocative actions and avoid escalating tensions,” he said. Colonel Tian emphasized that the PLA is “always on high alert and will resolutely defend China’s national sovereignty and security in the South China Sea.” He added that any attempt to violate China’s sovereignty “is doomed to fail.”
Military Significance: A Display of Strike Capability
Military experts noted that the bomber formation is a method for the PLA to demonstrate its offensive strike potential. Expert Song Zhongping told the Global Times that these bombers are capable of launching “saturation attacks” against large warships.
He stated that since the Philippines is “colluding with external countries to challenge China’s claims,” this patrol serves as a clear warning. Tensions have been high, with Chinese and Philippine vessels having several confrontations in recent months.
Escalating Tensions with Japan
China’s patrol coincides with rising tensions between China and Japan. The dispute was sparked by recent comments from Japanese Prime Minister Sane Taikaichi, who stated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would pose an “existential threat” to Japan.
In a stark warning, the PLA Daily stated on Sunday that if Japan intervenes militarily in Taiwan affairs, “the entire country of Japan could become a battlefield.”
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Prime Minister Taikaichi’s tough stance has boosted her popularity in Japan to 69.9%. A survey showed 60.4% of respondents supported increasing the defense budget, and nearly 49% supported Japan exercising its right to self-defense in the event of a Taiwan crisis.
