The US military stated on Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet engaged in an “unnecessarily aggressive maneuver” while intercepting a US spy plane in international airspace over the South China Sea last week.
During the incident on May 26, a Chinese J-16 fighter aircraft abruptly crossed the path of the US RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance plane, positioning itself directly in front of the American aircraft’s nose.
As a result, the US plane had to navigate through the wake turbulence generated by the intercepting fighter. Video footage released by the US military revealed the turbulence causing disruptions along the flight path of the US aircraft, CNN reported.
The US Indo-Pacific Command emphasized that the RC-135 was conducting “safe and routine operations” in accordance with international airspace norms.
In a statement, INDOPACOM reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to operate safely and responsibly in accordance with international law, asserting its right to conduct flights, navigation, and operations in permitted areas.
The statement emphasized that the safety of all vessels and aircraft is of paramount importance to the US Indo-Pacific Joint Force.
China’s military responded on Wednesday, claiming that the US spy plane had deliberately intruded into China’s training area.
This rebuttal was made in response to the US accusation of aggressive behavior. China’s foreign ministry rejected the US assertion and accused the United States of posing a “serious danger” to China by frequently deploying aircraft and vessels for reconnaissance activities near China.
During a regular briefing in Beijing, spokesperson Mao Ning stated that the US’s provocative and hazardous actions were the underlying cause of maritime security concerns, as reported by CNN.
China urged the US to cease such provocative actions and warned that it would continue to take necessary measures to defend its sovereignty and security.
Written by staff
B.C. Begley 