Joint air patrol by China and Russia over East China Sea and western Pacific underscores intensifying military cooperation. The two militaries flew their 10th joint air strategic patrol today under their annual cooperation plan. The operation spanned airspace above the East China Sea and western Pacific Ocean, according to a statement from China’s Defense Ministry.
The patrol involved aircraft from both the Chinese and Russian air forces and proceeded according to schedule. This joint action continues a series of cooperative operations between the two countries since 2019. Analysts say the latest flight reinforces growing military coordination under the joint air patrol framework.
China’s Defense Ministry described the operation as part of routine military cooperation and denied that it targeted any third party. Officials added that the patrol aimed to strengthen combined training and operational readiness of both air forces.
Observers note that such operations carry broader implications for regional security. They argue the repeated joint air patrols may shift strategic balances in Northeast Asia, especially given heightened concerns over airspace incursions and maritime disputes. At the same time, both governments frame the efforts as defensive and law‑abiding.
In recent months, other joint exercises between China and Russia — including naval drills and maritime patrols — have further boosted interoperability across sea, air, and anti-submarine operations.
Looking ahead, the pattern suggests more frequent combined operations between Beijing and Moscow. Military analysts expect future patrols to cover broader zones and possibly include more complex drills, even as regional capitals increase surveillance and ready their defense postures.
The joint air patrol highlights how diplomatic alignment between China and Russia now extends firmly into practical military cooperation under the banner of joint air patrol efforts.
