China Air Force Drills: Island encirclement patrols test PLA branch's combat ability

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A Chinese air-force formation has conducted island patrols, involving multiple types of aircraft. The training exercises included not only fighters, but also reconnaissance and airborne early-warning aircraft. SUN TIANYUAN has more.

China's H-6K fighter bomber has been leading the way in various ocean-training exercises and island encirclement patrols. It's the country's first self-developed mid-to-long-range new-type bomber. Meanwhile, the Su-30 and J-11 fighters, reconnaissance and early-warning aircraft, also joined the formation.

YAN CHAO CCTV REPORTER "I am now in a special aircraft of the air force. The air force formation consists of this one and many other aircraft which are involved in the island patrol. We can see through the window that two aircraft are approaching."

Minutes later, the aircraft on the other side separate and disappear in the distance. The crew said it was common to encounter this kind of situation while on patrol.

During the training exercises, the aircraft -- following international laws and practices -- flew over the Miyako Strait, Bashi Channel and the Tsushima Strait.

A spokesman for the PLA air force said it would continue to carry out island patrols involving multiple types of combat aircraft.

He added that the air force had the resolve, the confidence, and the ability to safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.