The modified versions of PLA's H-6K bombers the H-6J formed aerial formations
and reached the designated area under
harsh weather conditions. They then laid the sea mines before
dropping the bombs that hit the targets
on islands and reefs, reported Defense Post.
The report quoting the chinese
state-backed global times said the drill
involved the real-time use of
high-explosive aerial bombs and sea
bottom mines. After the first wave of bombing the
aircraft returned to the base, received
thorough checks before being resupplied
with munitions and fuel. they took off shortly for another air
raid. The bombers also carried YJ-12
anti-ship missiles under their wings in
addition to bombs and sea mines in their
belly.
"We have effectively tested the accuracy
and reliability of both types of
munitions. For the next step we will
pursue innovations in tactics and
approaches with the realistic situation
of the enemies taken into consideration
and make breakthroughs in using new
types of weapons and equipment," Jung Yanji a deputy commander of the regiment
said in the report.
The Global Times also quoted chinese
analysts who said such drills in the
disputed waterway serve as a deterrent
at a time when foreign forces and taiwan
secessionists are making provocations. The drill comes as china continues its
belligerence in the south china sea by
sending airplanes to breach taiwan's air
defense zone.
Two days ago u.s defense secretary lloyd
austin said chinese military flights
near taiwan look like rehearsals. He however did not indicate that he
expected beijing actually to carry out
such operations.
"I don't want to speculate but certainly
it looks a lot like rehearsals," Austin
said while speaking at a conference in California.
Last month the chinese military had
conducted assault training and combat
readiness with a series of knight
bombing drills in waters off the
southern island of Hainan. Dozens of H-6J bombers had carried out
patrols to improve the crew's stamina
and situational awareness at night.
The high intensity exercise saw H-6J Bombers practicing fending off ship and
ground attacks as well as firing tactics. The PLA had then said the drill laid a
solid foundation for fighting night
battles.
