← Latest news 
China patrols near Scarborough Shoal as Philippines and US conduct drills
International
Published on 4 May 2026
Combat patrols start right after allied drills intensify
China says its navy and air force conducted combat patrols near Scarborough Shoal as a response to protect territorial sovereignty in the South China Sea. The move comes as the Philippines and the United States, along with Australia and New Zealand, run annual regional drills showcasing advanced weapons and readiness. The patrols are framed as maintaining peace amid growing tensions.
- China deployed naval and air combat patrols near Scarborough Shoal
- The patrols followed major regional drills by Philippines and US
- Allied exercises include advanced weapons and heightened readiness
- China says actions aim to safeguard sovereignty and stability
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on 
The Economic Times