U.S.-Philippine Vessels and Aircraft Forcefully Attempt to Enter Huangyan Island! Chinese Coast Guard Deploys 9 Vessels + 7 Civilian Fishing Boats to Stand Firmly in Front, Blocking Them 30 Nautical Miles Away.

According to reports from Philippine sources and AIS vessel tracking data, China deployed a total of 9 law enforcement vessels in this operation, accompanied by 7 civilian fishing boats. The joint U.S.-Philippine naval and air units were intercepted and tracked by Chinese forces at a distance of 30 to 40 nautical miles from Huangyan Island, preventing them from advancing further.

As reported by Global Times on June 1, the U.S. Seventh Fleet announced on May 30 that from May 26 to May 30, the U.S. and Philippines conducted maritime joint operations within the so-called Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This marked the first time the U.S. Coast Guard participated in such joint exercises. Both sides deployed multiple ships and military aircraft. While the U.S. did not disclose the exact location, Philippine media reported that the operation took place near the vicinity of Huangyan Island.

It is reported that several warships, including the Type 052D destroyer, Type 054A and Type 056A frigates, as well as various combat aircraft such as the H-6K and J-16, were also present in the area. Notably, the H-6K was observed carrying YJ-12 anti-ship missiles. Meanwhile, the Chinese Coast Guard conducted patrols in formation, closely monitoring Philippine government vessels operating in the contiguous zone surrounding Huangyan Island.

The timing chosen by the Philippines was quite "ingenious." The period from May 26 to May 30 coincided precisely with the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore (May 29–31). As Asia-Pacific’s most important security forum, defense ministers and officials from around the world gathered for the event. By launching their joint military exercise right at this critical moment, the U.S. and Philippines clearly aimed to generate attention outside the conference hall—exerting off-site pressure on China.

Based on Philippine media reports and AIS trajectory data, nine Chinese coast guard law enforcement vessels and seven civilian fishing boats were concentrated around Huangyan Island. This is far more than routine patrol—it represents a precise response to the U.S.-Philippine joint actions. Any U.S.-Philippine vessels approaching within 30 to 40 nautical miles of Huangyan Island were immediately tracked and intercepted by Chinese coast guard vessels, making any breakthrough impossible.

In my view, against the backdrop of China's regular presence in the Huangyan Island waters, the Philippines’ actions increasingly resemble a mere “performance.” Who exactly are they trying to impress? The answer is self-evident. Just look at the smile on Kishida Fumio’s face—he looks genuinely delighted.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866848657157322/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.