UpdateStorm in the South China Sea: Beijing declares US bombers’ island flyover a ‘serious military provocation’

The Defence Ministry yesterday condemned the United States for committing a “serious military provocation” by flying strategic bombers over a Chinese artificial island in the South China Sea.

Foreign Minister spokesman Hong Lei (洪磊 ) urged the US to stop provocative actions following the flight of two B-52 bombers over the area near China-controlled islands in the disputed waters, saying: “China takes the incident seriously, and has lodged solemn representation with the United States.”

In a statement, the ministry confirmed the strategic bombers had entered the airspace near a man-made island on December 10, accusing the US of deliberately raising tensions in the disputed region.

Military personnel on the island went on high alert and warned the aircraft to leave, the ministry said.

The ministry said US has continuously sent military ships and planes to “make a show of force” and create tensions, which severely threatening the stability of the South China Sea.

It demanded Washington immediately take measures to prevent such incidents and damage to relations. The ministry also repeated previous assertions that it would take whatever necessary measures to protect China’s sovereignty and security.