China: Chinese military holds training exercise around Huangyan Dao in South China Sea.

Naval and air units of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command conducted a joint training exercise in the waters and airspace around China's Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea on Sunday, focusing on a series of actual-combat subjects, including reconnaissance and early warning, rapid maneuver, and joint search and rescue. The exercise effectively tested the participating troops' capabilities for sea-air coordination and for giving rapid support. A statement from the command said the exercise is a necessary operation taken in response to the acts taken by certain countries that have undermined regional peace and stability. Theater Command troops remain on high alert at all times and will resolutely safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, the statement said. The exercise drew participation of various types of aircraft, including early warning aircraft, reconnaissance aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Vessels like guided-missile frigate Yulin and comprehensive supply ship Qinghaihu also took part in the exercise, with Yulin conducting a humanitarian search and rescue operation for people falling overboard. Ship-borne small boats were dispatched during the drill to bring the "rescued personnel" onboard and medical services were also given immediately. Shotlist: South China - Sept 27, 2026: 1. Various of airborne early warning aircraft, drones taking off, flying; South China Sea - Sept 27, 2026 2. Aerial shot of vessel sailing; 3. Various of vessels sailing; 4. Aerial shot of island; 5. Various of humanitarian search and rescue exercise in progress; 6. Helicopter landing on warship; 7. Warship sailing; 8. Various of humanitarian rescue exercise in progress; 9. SOUNDBITE (Chinese) Liang Lu, navy major, guided-missile frigate Yulin (starting with shot 8/ending with shot 10): "Next, we will base our training on more complex contingencies and hazardous scenarios, adhere to actual-combat standards, and focus on training for capacity building, coordination of battle station and force employment, to maintain constant combat readiness for immediate mission fulfillment and effectively respond to various emergencies as well as risks and challenges."; 10. Various of exercise in progress. [Restrictions: No access Chinese mainland]