Last week, a Chinese J-16 fighter pilot flew directly in front of the RC-135, coming within 400 feet of its nose, thereby compelling the U.S. aircraft to navigate through the turbulence created by the Chinese jet.
A U.S. Indo-Pacific Command statement has accused a Chinese fighter jet of engaging in an aggressive maneuver during an intercept of a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft
The incident occurred over the South China Sea in international airspace on May 26. The U.S. statement emphasized that it will continue to operate safely and responsibly in accordance with international law wherever it is permitted. It also urged all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to ensure the safe use of international airspace, conforming to international legal norms.
Beijing, on the other hand, has placed blame on the United States, citing “provocation.” China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, expressed concerns over the United States’ persistent and frequent surveillance activities, asserting that they undermine China’s national sovereignty and security.
In response to the incident, the Pentagon released a video captured from the cockpit of the U.S. reconnaissance plane
The footage reveals the Chinese fighter jet approaching in close proximity to the U.S. aircraft before abruptly changing course. The video then depicts turbulence shaking the U.S. plane as a result of the encounter.
This recent unsafe maneuver is part of a larger trend observed by the Pentagon. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command spokesperson stated that there has been a notable increase in risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea involving Chinese military aircraft and vessels. The Pentagon cited a previous incident in December when a Chinese jet flew within 20 feet of a U.S. RC-135, forcing evasive action to prevent a collision.
The incident occurred as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin embarked on his seventh trip to the Indo-Pacific region. However, China rejected an invitation for a meeting between Austin and his Chinese counterpart, Li Shangfu, at an annual defense summit in Singapore where both officials are attending.
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