August 2, 2026

On August 1, the Army Day, China took three major actions regarding Huangyan Dao, which cannot be characterized merely as "symbolic gestures." These actions represent the latest response to the Philippines' provocative and unlawful actions.

First, the Chinese PLA Southern Theater Command conducted a joint naval-air training exercise focusing on multiple realistic training subjects in the territorial sea and airspace of China's Huangyan Dao and its surrounding areas. The exercise held on the Army Day was not only a military action, but also a strategic declaration, sending a clear message again to all: Huangyan Dao is Chinese territory, and the Chinese military has the capability to carry out any necessary operations in its own territorial waters and airspace. From reconnaissance and early warning to deterrence patrols, maritime and air control, and joint strikes, every key exercise item was designed around real combat scenarios. The exercise demonstrated that the theater command forces maintain a constant state of high alert, ready to fight at any moment and certain to win once engaged, while resolutely safeguarding every inch of the motherland's maritime territory.

Second, China Coast Guard (CCG) on Saturday conducted drills on rights-protection law enforcement, as well as management and control in the waters near China's Huangyan Dao. The drills focused on operations such as visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS), interdiction of forced entry, and forced towing. These may seem like just a few words, but in maritime law enforcement, "VBSS" means legally boarding vessels and detaining those involved in violations; "interdiction of forced entry" means preventing intruders from entering; and "forced towing" means removing vessels that violate regulations. These operations are all based on extensive practical experience. Put simply, every step of law enforcement has been thoroughly rehearsed - anyone who comes to cause trouble will face a well-prepared response.

Read more:

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202608/1367380.shtml