China Conducts Naval and Air Patrols Around Disputed South China Sea Shoal

AFP

The disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

China's military carried out joint naval and air combat patrols around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Saturday, according to a statement issued by the People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command.

China's military said its joint naval and air exercises were conducted in the waters and airspace surrounding the disputed Scarborough Shoal, which Beijing refers to as Huangyan Dao.

The People's Liberation Army described the drills as a necessary response to actions by "certain countries" that it claimed were undermining peace and stability in the region. Although no country was named, the Scarborough Shoal is also claimed by the Philippines, where it is known as Bajo de Masinloc.

According to the military, the exercises were aimed at testing and enhancing the combat readiness of Chinese forces to safeguard the country's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

Separately, China on Saturday introduced a new policy governing the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve, which was established in September 2025. State news agency Xinhua reported that the regulations prohibit unauthorised fishing, mining, the extraction of coral and giant clams, and other activities considered harmful to the protected area.

Xinhua said anyone found violating the regulations would face legal action. It also reported that the China Coast Guard would carry out regular patrols around the reserve to prevent and tackle illegal activities.



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