Photo: Courtesy of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force

The Chinese Defense Ministry announced on Saturday that the second-phase mission of the 9th joint air strategic patrol by the air forces of China and Russia in the Western Pacific was completed that day. An expert interviewed by the Global Times said that it is completely normal for the two countries’ air forces to conduct such operations regularly at their doorsteps. 

On Friday, the Chinese Defense Ministry issued a statement confirming that, according to the annual cooperation plan between the two military forces, China and Russia’s air forces had organized the 9th joint air strategic patrol over relevant airspace in the Sea of Japan on that day. In June 2023, the joint air strategic patrol between China and Russia was divided into two phases for the first time, demonstrating their capability to execute strategic patrol missions tailored to operational needs.

Chinese military expert Zhang Junshe told the Global Times on Saturday that the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, and the West Pacific airspace are considered the 'doorsteps' of China and Russia, and it is entirely reasonable for the two air forces to conduct joint strategic patrols in these regions. In the straits and waters where Chinese and Russian warplanes conducted patrols, such as the Miyako Strait, Tsushima Strait, and the West Pacific, all nations have the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, he said.

For joint air strategic patrols conducted by the air forces of China and Russia in the Sea of Japan and other waters, some foreign media outlets said the patrols may be aimed at countering the US’ plans to deploy intermediate-range missiles in Japan. 

In response, Zhang stressed that during the patrol, the Chinese and Russian military aircraft operated professionally, safely, and in full compliance with international laws and norms. Relevant countries should approach China and Russia's routine air strategic patrols with objectivity instead of issuing unwarranted criticisms, he said. 

For the first time during the latest patrol, China's air force used the H-6N strategic bomber. Zhang said that this deployment was based entirely on operational and training requirements. The H-6N is emblematic of the strategic transformation of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and is capable of long-range operations. The joint flight of Chinese and Russian fighter jets over relevant straits and their advance into the Western Pacific for air strategic patrols has demonstrated and bolstered the two nations' capability for joint operations at sea, Zhang noted.