China lands bombers in disputed region

The Chinese air force yesterday landed long-range bombers for the first time on an island in the South China Sea in a move likely to further fuel concerns about Beijing’s expansive claims over the disputed region.

The China Daily newspaper reported that the People’s Liberation Army Air Force conducted take-off and landing training with the H-6K bomber.

China is pitted against smaller neighbours in multiple disputes in the South China Sea over islands, coral reefs and lagoons in waters crucial for global commerce and rich in fish and potential oil and gas reserves. The US criticised the move.