The People's Liberation Army (PLA) confirmed on Tuesday that it expelled a Philippine NC-212 military jet from the airspace of Huangyan Dao, a Chinese territory in the South China Sea. The Southern Theater Command stated its forces conducted \"professional, proper, and lawful\" measures, including identification, tracking, and warnings, to address the incident.
Why Huangyan Dao Matters
Known internationally as Scarborough Shoal, Huangyan Dao has been a focal point of regional tensions. China maintains historical sovereignty claims, while the Philippines asserts overlapping rights under international law. Tuesday's incident marks the latest in a series of maritime and aerial standoffs between the two nations.
Broader Implications
Analysts warn such encounters could escalate regional friction, impacting trade routes traversed by $3.4 trillion in annual shipping. Business leaders urge diplomatic solutions to maintain stability in key Asian markets. The PLA emphasized its actions aimed to \"safeguard national sovereignty\" amid increasing maritime patrols by multiple claimants.
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China expels Philippine warplane after Huangyan Dao airspace violation
cgtn.com
