Chinese naval and air forces conducted joint patrols around the disputed Scarborough Shoal as Beijing announced new measures for the surrounding nature reserve.

China Holds Naval and Air Patrols Around Disputed South China Sea Shoal

BEIJING — August 1, 2026

China's military has carried out joint naval and air patrols around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, saying the operation was aimed at strengthening combat readiness and protecting what it described as its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

The People's Liberation Army's Southern Theater Command said the drills took place in the waters and airspace surrounding the shoal, which China calls Huangyan Dao. The military described the exercises as a response to actions by "certain countries" that it claimed were threatening peace and stability in the region, although it did not identify those countries.

Scarborough Shoal is also claimed by the Philippines, where it is known as Bajo de Masinloc. The feature has long been one of the main areas of dispute between Beijing and Manila in the South China Sea.

The Philippine Embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the announcement of the military exercises.

Alongside the drills, Chinese authorities introduced a new policy governing the Huangyan Island National Nature Reserve, which was established in September 2025. The new rules prohibit unauthorized fishing, mining, coral collection, giant clam harvesting and other activities that could damage the protected marine environment.

Chinese authorities said individuals or organizations violating the regulations would face legal action under Chinese law.

China also announced that its Coast Guard will conduct regular patrols around the nature reserve to enforce the new measures and respond to activities it considers illegal.

The South China Sea remains one of Asia's most sensitive maritime regions, with overlapping territorial claims involving China, the Philippines and several other countries. The area is strategically important because of its major shipping routes, rich fishing grounds and potential energy resources.

The latest military exercises and new conservation measures come as tensions continue over competing claims in the disputed waters.