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:

A U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber and three Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter jets conducted a combined air patrol over the South China Sea, within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The patrol was part of the 3rd Maritime Cooperative Activity, underscoring the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its national territory and sovereign rights, and reinforcing the U.S. strategic deterrence mission in the Indo-Pacific.
China criticized the joint air patrol as a "political show" and accused the Philippines of collaborating with "countries outside the region to stir up troubles" in the disputed area.

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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.”