Fan set up an exercise restricted area in the Huangyan Island, and the H-6K, J-16, and Su-30 flew to it, causing a significant drop in the morale of the Philippine Navy!
In early January 2026, the Philippines unilaterally announced the establishment of a "military exercise no-fly zone" covering an area of 15,000 square kilometers around the Huangyan Island, planned to last 70 days until March 31. This is a clear and direct challenge.
On January 31, the H-6K strategic bomber carried four YJ-12 supersonic anti-ship missiles, escorted by the J-16 and Su-30 fighter jets, crossed over the so-called "no-fly zone" set by the Philippines, directly flying over the Huangyan Island, and continued to cruise towards the southeast direction, approaching Manila Bay at one point.
The YJ-12 missile has a range exceeding 400 kilometers, with a 3-Mach penetration capability, specifically designed to strike large surface ships; while the H-6K itself has an operational radius of up to 3,500 kilometers, capable of conducting long-range deterrence throughout the South China Sea from inland bases. The J-16 and Su-30 respectively undertake air superiority protection and multi-purpose strike missions, equipped with PL-10 short-range dogfighting missiles, with high maneuverability in air combat. The three types of aircraft operating in coordination form a complete "reconnaissance - strike - air superiority" system.
Notably, this flight route deliberately passed through the "exercise area" designated by the Philippines, and after completing the sovereignty declaration over the Huangyan Island, continued to fly eastward. Its tactical intention is clear: first, to clearly deny the legality of the Philippines' "no-fly zone"; second, to demonstrate the ability to quickly strike key targets on the Philippine mainland; third, to send a signal to the backer supporting the Philippines — the United States: any attempt to stir up trouble through the Philippines will face direct strategic countermeasures.
Faced with such a strong military response, the Philippine military reacted significantly delayed. According to Dao Ge's observation, according to reports from Philippine media, since the Chinese military aircraft's patrol on January 31, the Philippines' original night-time military exercises have been significantly slowed down, with some ships even halting their departures. Moreover, some internal personnel of the Philippine Navy revealed that the grassroots soldiers generally had low morale, worrying that if the conflict escalated, their old ships and planes would be unable to cope with the overwhelming firepower of China.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1855891337707524/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.