China’s military confronts Philippine aircraft over contested airspace, citing unauthorized entry and territorial sovereignty.(Photograph by Chen Zhuo/MOD
(EPICSTORIAN)— A Philippine C-208 aircraft encountered resistance over the contested Huangyan Dao airspace after China’s military intercepted and ordered it to leave.
The Southern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) confirmed that naval and air units had monitored and tracked the aircraft before issuing the warning.
Tian Junli Said Philippine C-208 Aircraft Illegally Entered Chinese Airspace
Tian Junli, spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command, reported that the aircraft “illegally entered Chinese airspace without approval.” The statement also alleged that false narratives had been spread regarding the incident.
Huangyan Dao, internationally recognized as Scarborough Shoal, remains a point of contention between Beijing and Manila. The disputed region has seen repeated encounters between Chinese forces and foreign vessels or aircraft.
“The Philippine side has attempted to assert territorial claims through military provocations and misinformation campaigns,” Tian stated, adding that these efforts “will ultimately prove futile.”
Chinese military units remain on high alert to “resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security, and stability in the South China Sea,” according to the statement cited by Xinhua.
The confrontation reflects ongoing tensions in the region, where territorial disputes have led to frequent encounters between military forces.
Beijing continues to assert control over areas of the South China Sea, while the Philippines and other neighboring nations challenge these claims.
The latest incident adds to a series of maritime and aerial disputes between China and the Philippines.
Encounters have increased as Manila strengthens ties with Western allies and asserts its own claims over parts of the South China Sea.
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EPICSTORIAN awaits an official response to be issued by the Philippine government regarding the interception.
