The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) expelled three Philippine military aircraft that illegally entered the airspace near China’s Nansha Qundao, a move described as a defense of national sovereignty amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.
🚨 What Happened?
According to PLA Southern Theater Command spokesperson Tian Junli, two C-208 aircraft and one N-22 aircraft from the Philippines were tracked and warned off Thursday. Tian accused Manila of ‘distorting facts’ about China’s lawful maritime activities and engaging in smear campaigns.
⚠️ A Dangerous Pattern?
Tian also highlighted a February 18 incident where a Philippine plane reportedly flew erratically near Huangyan Dao, dropping 920 meters in altitude in under four minutes and approaching a Chinese helicopter. The PLA called the maneuver ‘unprofessional and dangerous’.
🗣️ China’s Stance
‘Such clumsy tactics are destined to fail,’ Tian stated, emphasizing that Chinese forces remain on high alert to protect sovereignty and regional stability. The Philippines has yet to publicly respond.
🔍 Why it matters: The South China Sea remains a geopolitical hotspot, with overlapping territorial claims impacting trade routes and regional security. Stay tuned for updates.
