China's H-6J bomber carrying YJ-12 missiles joins PLA drill at disputed shoal

China Shows Military Power

China deployed an H-6J bomber armed with four large missiles during joint naval and air drills around disputed Huangyan Dao, also known as Scarborough Shoal. Chinese military commentator Zhang Xuefeng said the weapons appeared, from their shape, to be YJ-12 supersonic anti-ship missiles.

Footage from August 1 shows the H-6J flying with four missiles under its wings as Chinese warships, aircraft and helicopters manoeuvre at sea.

Zhang said the H-6J took part in reconnaissance, deterrence patrols and joint-strike training.

“The H-6J serves as the absolute core asset in deterrence patrol operations, a clear demonstration of China’s unwavering resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” Zhang said.

Missile Capabilities Highlighted

Zhang described the YJ-12 as having ‘exceptional penetration performance’, saying it can reach at least Mach 3.5 and has a range of 400 to 500 kilometres. He said the missile was capable of striking maritime targets.

“Its formidable destructive power, as a single direct hit can effectively disable large enemy surface warships, earning it the reputation of ‘carrier killer’,” he added.

The PLA Southern Theatre Command said bomber formations practised strikes against maritime targets, while destroyers and frigates carried out air defence operations. China said the drills were intended to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

South China Sea Tensions

Huangyan Dao, also known as Scarborough Shoal, is a disputed feature in the South China Sea claimed by China and the Philippines, and a recurring flashpoint between the two countries.

The August 1 drills followed recent confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels as both sides pressed competing claims around the shoal. Philippine authorities reported Chinese coastguard and naval vessels operating around Bajo de Masinloc in July.

CGTN, via Viory.Video