The Ministry of Defense of Russia released a video showing a joint aerial patrol conducted by the Russian Aerospace Forces and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force over the Asia-Pacific region.
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The operation, which included strategic bombers and fighter jets, has raised concerns among neighboring countries due to its geopolitical implications.
Strategic joint operation
The patrol combined strategic bombers Tu-95ms from Russia and Hun-6k from China, flying over sensitive areas such as the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea, and the western Pacific Ocean. The operation lasted approximately 8 hours.
Aerial escort was provided by Su-30cm and MiG-31 fighters from the Russian forces, while China deployed its advanced Jian-16 jets. During the mission, Russian bombers conducted night aerial refueling, showcasing a high level of coordination and operational capability between the two nations’ forces.
International presence and regional tensions
At certain points of the route, aircraft from other countries accompanied the bombers, reflecting international interest and concern. Nevertheless, both Russia and China emphasized that all operations were conducted in full compliance with international law, without any violation of foreign airspace.
An important aspect of the operation was the use of a Chinese airfield by Russian aircraft, highlighting the advanced level of logistical integration between Moscow and Beijing.
A show of military strength
While it may be interpreted as a warning or even a veiled threat to neighboring countries, both governments state that the patrol is part of the military cooperation plan for 2024 and is not intended to intimidate other nations. At the conclusion of the mission, all aircraft returned safely to their home bases.
Source and images: Telegram @mod_russia. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.