The Philippine Air Force (AFP) reported that a Chinese fighter jet approached a Philippine patrol aircraft near Scarborough Shoal in a manner deemed dangerous for flight safety. The incident occurred on Saturday, followed by two Chinese military aircraft aggressively closing in on the patrol aircraft.
Incident Details
According to reports, a Philippine C-208 light patrol aircraft was flying near Scarborough Shoal when it suddenly encountered two Chinese fighter jets, including a J-16 fighter. The Chinese fighter repeatedly approached the Philippine aircraft, performing dangerous maneuvers in front of and behind it.
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The C-208 is a small, unarmed aircraft used by the Philippine Air Force for maritime patrols. In contrast, the Shenyang J-16 fighter is a fourth-generation strike fighter inspired by the Soviet Su-27 fighter design.
Consequences of the Incident
The Philippine Air Force stated in a press release: "This incident is part of a recurring pattern of unsafe and coercive behaviors observed against Philippine government vessels and aircraft conducting lawful operations." The force emphasized that it will continue maritime and aerial patrols in the area.
The C-208 returned to base safely after completing its mission. Regarding this incident, China claimed that its military aircraft acted to expel the Philippine aircraft that had "illegally entered Chinese airspace."
China claims ownership of most parts of the South China Sea and took control of Scarborough Shoal from Philippine forces in 2012. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in 2016 that these claims have no basis in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, but China has ignored this ruling and continued to expand its presence in the region.
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