Conflict between Chinese Air Force and transport aircraft
Many states assert territorial claims in the South China Sea. A new conflict has arisen between China and the Philippines, with both sides accusing each other. Manila even speaks of a life-threatening situation for two pilots.
The Philippine military has accused the Chinese air force of dangerous maneuvers over the South China Sea. Two Chinese aircraft allegedly used flares in the vicinity of a Philippine air force transport plane on a routine patrol, according to military chief Romeo Brawner.
All personnel on board the NC-212i remained unharmed during the incident over the Scarborough Reef on Thursday morning. The plane safely returned to Clark Air Base north of Manila.
From Philippine security sources, it was reported that the Chinese jets flew at very close range to the Philippine air force plane, putting the pilots in real danger. The Chinese fighter jets fired at least eight flares.
China claims deployment was legitimate
The responsible Chinese military command stated that a Philippine air force plane illegally entered the airspace over the Huangyan Island on Thursday and disrupted training activities. The military used the Chinese name of the Scarborough Reef, which China claims.
The command sent fighter jets and ships to identify, track, and drive away the Philippine plane, according to the statement. The deployment was legitimate and justified. The military remains on high alert and ready to defend China's national sovereignty and security.
In addition to China and the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand also assert territorial claims in the South China Sea. However, there have been disputes, particularly between the coast guards and naval forces of China and the Philippines, at the Scarborough Reef and another disputed atoll, the Second Thomas Shoal, since last year.
The escalating tensions in the South China Sea have been highlighted by numerous Wars and Conflicts. This latest incident between China and the Philippines is a prime example of how these ongoing territorial disputes can lead to dangerous encounters.
