China has carried out joint naval and air exercises around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, as the country’s military announced new patrol activities near the strategically important area. The China South China Sea drills were conducted by forces under the People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command.
According to China’s military statement, the exercises took place in the waters and airspace surrounding the shoal, which Beijing refers to as Huangyan Dao. The drills were described as a measure to improve operational readiness and strengthen the ability of Chinese forces to protect territorial sovereignty and maritime interests.
The Chinese military said the exercises were a response to actions by what it called “certain countries” that could affect regional peace and stability. However, the statement did not identify any specific country. The Scarborough Shoal is also claimed by the Philippines, where it is known as Bajo de Masinloc.
The drills come amid ongoing disputes in the South China Sea, one of the world’s busiest maritime regions. Several countries have overlapping territorial claims in the area, making military activities and maritime movements closely watched by regional governments.
The Philippine embassy in Beijing did not immediately issue a response regarding the latest Chinese military exercises. Officials from both countries have previously expressed different views over maritime rights and access in disputed waters.
China also announced new regulations for the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve, which was established in 2025. According to Chinese state media, activities such as unauthorized fishing, mining, coral extraction, and other harmful actions will be prohibited under the new policy.
The latest China South China Sea drills highlight continuing security concerns in the region. As maritime disputes remain unresolved, countries involved are closely monitoring military movements and diplomatic developments around the contested waters.
