Chinese jets intercept US reconnaissance aircraft
Two Chinese warplanes have engaged in an “unsafe” intercept of a US military reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, the Pentagon says.
According to a Pentagon statement released on Wednesday, the incident occurred in “international airspace” on Tuesday while the US jet was carrying out a routine patrol.
The statement also noted that the issue is being addressed by the Department of Defense (DoD) via the correct military and diplomatic channels.
“Over the past year, DoD has seen improvements in PRC (People’s Republic of China) actions, flying in a safe and professional manner,” it added.
Last week, the Chinese Defense Ministry said frequent US Navy patrols in the South China Sea are forcing Beijing to boost its defense capabilities in the area amid rising tensions in the disputed waters.
The South China Sea has become a source of tension between China, the US, and some other regional countries, who are seeking control of trade routes and mineral deposits there.
China has on different occasions asserted its sovereignty over the sea, parts of which are also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam and the Philippines.
Washington has accused Beijing of attempting to take advantage of the situation and gradually asserting control over the region.
China, however, rejects the allegations and says the US is interfering in regional affairs, deliberately stirring tensions in the South China Sea.
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