Chinese military patrols Scarborough Shoal, 5 days after US-Philippine drills in area

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Shi JiangtaoJanuary 31, 2026 at 12:35 PM

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China conducted naval and air patrols around Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Saturday, following recent joint military drills by the US and the Philippines in the area. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theatre Command stated the patrols were a response to "infringement and provocative actions" by unspecified countries, a likely reference to the US and Philippines. The PLA revealed details of the operation, including the flight path of H-6K bombers armed with anti-ship missiles, supported by naval frigates and coastguard vessels. According to state media, China has increased patrols and vigilance near Scarborough Shoal since January to protect its sovereignty and regional stability. The patrols highlight ongoing tensions in the disputed waters.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Dali 30% Hengshui 30% Type 054A 40% H-6K 40% Xinhua News Agency 50% PLA Southern Theatre Command ×260% People's Liberation Army (PLA) ×270% South China Sea 70% Philippines ×270% United States ×270% China ×380% Scarborough Shoal (Huangyan Island) ×490%

Keywords

scarborough shoal 100% south china sea 90% military patrols 80% us-philippine drills 70% china 70% pla southern theatre command 60% national sovereignty 50% combat readiness 50% anti-ship missiles 40%