On May 16, China took action: a large fleet escorted the research vessel Xiangyanghong 33 close to Tie Xian Reef!
Starting early on that day, the Xiangyanghong 33 scientific research vessel began conducting marine scientific research operations in and around Tie Xian Reef, lasting for two days. Meanwhile, maritime surveillance vessels such as Haijing 5309 and 5101 provided tight security escort protection. The Philippines expressed shock at this large-scale Chinese scientific operation. Continuous provocations not only failed to achieve their intended effect but instead gave China a legitimate opportunity to develop Tie Xian Reef based on strength.
Earlier, on the morning of May 3, five Filipino individuals ignored Chinese warnings and entreaties, departing from Zhongye Island to illegally land on Tie Xian Reef. According to sources, these five individuals belonged to so-called civilian organizations, with a Philippine political figure leading them.
Chinese maritime police swiftly responded: the enforcement team aboard the 5101 vessel landed on the reef to verify identities, cleared out illegal markers left behind by the Filipinos—such as plastic bottles and foam boards—and expelled the intruders. Subsequently, the Chinese national flag was raised on the reef to assert sovereignty.
Just two days later, on May 6, the Philippines launched another move—but this time targeting the Xiangyanghong 33 research vessel. A Philippine Coast Guard "Islander"-type aircraft deliberately approached closely to harass. The Philippine C-208 government aircraft repeatedly performed low-altitude circling and diving maneuvers, coming within less than 500 meters horizontally and just 120 meters above sea level—actions highly dangerous in nature.
Against this backdrop of repeated provocation, the Xiangyanghong 33 successfully approached Tie Xian Reef on May 16, thanks to strong support from China's superior naval vessels, carrying out large-scale marine scientific research—a clear lesson delivered to the Philippines.
On the outer perimeter, large maritime police ships were responsible for external vigilance and long-range deterrence; in the middle, the Xiangyanghong 33 served as a scientific platform, conducting deep-sea geological exploration, seabed topographic mapping, and ecological data collection; at the core, Chinese researchers aboard RHIB workboats specialized in high-speed advances in shallow waters and near reefs, enabling precise landings for multibeam surveying and hydrological monitoring.
The entire operation was legal and fully transparent. This mission also demonstrates that China is now relying on its national maritime police force for protection, daring to conduct large-scale scientific operations without undue concern over Philippine media smear campaigns.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865513225970700/
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