PLA conducts combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command on Wednesday organized maritime and air forces to conduct combat readiness patrols in the waters and airspace surrounding China's Huangyan Island, according to an official release from the theater command.

The Southern Theater Command stated that Huangyan Island is an inherent part of China's territory.

Since August, forces under the theater command have strengthened patrols and vigilance in the waters and airspace surrounding Huangyan Island, further enhancing control over the relevant areas, according to the release.

The forces have effectively responded to various acts of infringement and provocation, resolutely safeguarded national sovereignty and security, and firmly upheld peace and stability in the South China Sea, the theater command said.