The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command's naval and air forces conducted combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island and its surrounding areas on Saturday, five days after US-Philippine drills in the region. The patrols aim to counter infringements and provocations by certain countries while safeguarding China's territorial sovereignty and upholding peace in the South China Sea. The operation involved multiple aircraft and vessels, including H-6K bombers and frigates.
On January 31, 2026, the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command issued a statement announcing that its naval and air forces had conducted combat readiness patrols in the territorial sea and airspace around Huangyan Island, which the Philippines calls Scarborough Shoal. The patrols took place five days after joint US-Philippine military exercises in the area, aimed at resolutely countering infringements and provocative actions by certain countries in the region.
The command stated that since the beginning of January, its forces have intensified patrols and vigilance to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and security while upholding peace and stability in the South China Sea. In an unusual disclosure, the PLA revealed operational details, including a bomber flight path over the disputed waters. State media reported that the patrols involved multiple aircraft, such as H-6K bombers equipped with anti-ship missiles, supported by the navy's Type 054A guided-missile frigates Hengshui and Dali, as well as coastguard vessels.
Citing the command's statement, Xinhua news agency emphasized the actions' role in defending China's territorial sovereignty. Huangyan Island remains a flashpoint in South China Sea disputes between China and the Philippines, highlighting Beijing's commitment to maritime rights.