U.S. Air Force B-52, Philippine Fighters Patrol Over South China Sea

The long-range heavy bomber takes part in a strategic deterrence mission aimed at reinforcing the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region, DOD said.

Kimberly Johnson

Friday, February 23, 2024 at 11:47 AM ET

Verified

A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress carried out a combined air patrol with Philippine Air Force FA-50s over the South China Sea. [Courtesy: Philippine Air Force]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. and Philippine air forces conducted a joint air patrol in the South China Sea within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), involving a U.S. B-52 Stratofortress and three Philippine FA-50 fighter jets.
The Philippines stated the patrol affirmed its commitment to safeguarding national territory and regional peace, while China criticized it as a "political show" designed to stir up trouble in the disputed region.
The U.S. B-52's participation is part of a broader strategic deterrence mission in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to reinforce a rules-based order and demonstrate U.S. commitment to regional security, alongside its involvement in the Cope North 24 multilateral exercise.

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A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress and three Philippine Air Force (PAF) FA-50 fighter jets recently participated in a combined air patrol over the South China Sea.

“On [Monday], the [PAF] and the U.S. Pacific Air Forces carried out the Combined Air Patrol as Phase 2 of the 3rd Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), covering areas 90 nm west of Candon, Ilocos Sur, and 50 nm northwest of Lubang, Mindoro,” the Philippine Air Force said. “With this activity, the PAF underscores its commitment and readiness to support the [Armed Forces of the Philippines’] efforts in safeguarding the national territory and sovereign rights, and upholding regional peace and security.”