PLA conducts combat readiness patrols around Huangyan Island

The People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command organized naval and air forces to conduct combat readiness patrols in the territorial waters and airspace of China's Huangyan Island and surrounding areas in the South China Sea on Tuesday.

Huangyan Island is China's inherent territory, the theater command reiterated in a statement on Tuesday morning.

Since June, troops have continued to strengthen patrols and vigilance in the waters and airspace around the territorial waters of Huangyan Island, the statement said.

The operations have effectively responded to various infringing and provocative actions, resolutely safeguarded national sovereignty and security, and firmly maintained peace and stability in the South China Sea, it said.