Title: Russian and Chinese Navies Conduct Joint Patrols in East China Sea
A joint flotilla comprising 10 ships from the Russian and Chinese navies, which recently sailed near Alaska and the Aleutian Islands, has now entered the East China Sea. The flotilla embarked on its voyage from Vladivostok, Russia on July 27 and has been operating together since then.
Initially consisting of 11 ships during their Alaska excursion, details regarding the identity of the 11th vessel were not disclosed. The Japanese military was the first to spot the flotilla sailing westward in an area northeast of Okinotorishima, a coral reef under Japanese administration in the Philippine Sea.
In response, the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) deployed ships and aircraft to closely monitor the flotilla as it passed through the East China Sea. This marks the third annual joint patrol conducted by Russia and China, aiming to fortify their strategic cooperation.
China’s Ministry of National Defense defended the joint patrol, asserting that it adhered to international law and was not aimed at any specific third party. Conversely, China condemned Japan’s surveillance activities at close range, classifying it as dangerous and urged Japan to halt such practices.
In other naval news, the 43rd Chinese Naval Escort Taskforce, operated by the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), arrived at the Port Klang Cruise Terminal in Malaysia. Considering the terminal was formerly owned by Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis, this adds an intriguing twist to the story. The taskforce, responsible for anti-piracy escort duties, has been deployed in the Gulf of Aden since 2009.
The partnership between Russia and China in their joint naval patrols serves to reinforce their commitment to mutual defense and strategic collaboration. While Japan raises concerns over this display of military might, both Russia and China maintain that the navigation is well within international legal boundaries and does not pose a threat to any nation.
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