China: US Military Aircraft Showing Off Strength Is a Source of Danger

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning (ANTARA/Desca Lidya Natalia)

JAKARTA - Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stated that United States (US) military aircraft showing off their power by flying around various regions of the country were a source of risk and endangered regional stability.

"What I want to say is that US military aircraft, which travel around the world to Chinese territory to show off their military power, are actually a source of risk to maritime and air security as well as endangering regional peace and stability," said Mao Ning when delivering a statement to media in Beijing, China as reported by ANTARA, Friday, October 27.

Mao Ning made that point after a Chinese fighter plane intercepted a United States Air Force B-52 bomber over the South China Sea this week, nearly causing a collision.

According to US Indo-Pacific Command, the B-52 Bomber was legally operating routinely within international airspace.

During the nighttime intercept, the Chinese pilot, according to US Indo-Pacific Command, flew dangerously and unprofessionally, exhibiting poor flying skills by approaching at excessive speed and uncontrolled.

"China will take firm action to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity," said Mao Ning.

Mao Ning did not convey the Chinese government's point of view on how the chronology of the intercept occurred.

Meanwhile, the US Indo-Pacific Command has said the Chinese fighter flew within 10 feet (about 3 meters) of the B-52, potentially causing a collision.

The interception occurred Tuesday (24/10) evening. Since fall 2021 there have been more than 180 such interactions.

But the US will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly, wherever international law allows, the Indo-Pacific Command said.