Southern Theater Command Releases: Joint Naval and Air Exercises; Expert Analysis: Clear Targeting, Aimed at the Philippines

[Global Times - Global Network Report by reporter Guo Yuandan] The Southern Theater Command announced on the 27th that on that day, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) organized a joint naval and air exercise in the air and sea areas around Huangyan Island. Experts interviewed by the Global Times stated that the most significant feature of this exercise is its "clear target," which is directed at the Philippines.

The announcement from the Southern Theater Command emphasized that this is a necessary action in response to certain countries undermining regional peace and stability, aimed at testing and enhancing the troops' combat capabilities in safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

Regarding the "certain countries" mentioned in the announcement, Zhang Chi, a professor at the National Defense University, analyzed on the 27th for the Global Times that the PLA's organization of joint naval and air exercises in the air and sea areas around Huangyan Island serves as a stern warning against the Philippines' infringement and provocative actions. It is a necessary action aimed at increasing the enforcement and control over the air and sea areas near Huangyan Island, testing and enhancing the practical capabilities to safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

Zhang Chi emphasized, "This joint exercise is a clear message to the Philippines, making them realize that in the face of China's legitimate sovereign rights, firm determination to safeguard those rights, and strong capabilities, any small actions they take or any support they seek will not succeed in their illegal schemes."

He further emphasized that the message conveyed by this joint exercise is very clear: China's determination to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights is unwavering, and it is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea. The Chinese military and police forces will always remain on high alert, resolutely thwarting any actions that rely on foreign support to provoke trouble at sea, and will not allow any schemes that disrupt the South China Sea to succeed.

"If the Philippines remains obstinate, acts unilaterally, and continues to provoke, China will respond with even stronger countermeasures. In the end, the Philippines will only end up suffering the consequences, bringing trouble upon itself," Zhang Chi said.