Um Embraer A-29 Super Tucano of the Philippine Force (PAF) was “surrounded” by at least two Chinese J-11 fighter planes during a bilateral exercise last Sunday (26). For 15 minutes the pair of Chinese jets orbited the Philippine turboprop, but without getting too close.

The action by the Chinese Air Force (PLAAF) took place during training between the Philippines and Australia, over the West Philippine Sea, within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone. 

PAF AIR ASSETS TAKE PART IN JOINT PH-AUSTRALIA MARITIME COOPERATIVE ACTIVITY

Two Philippine Air Force A29 Super Tucano aircraft participated in a joint maritime activity with the Australian Defense Force over the West Philippine Sea on November 25, 2023. pic.twitter.com/n4sdG3sKvi

— Philippine Air Force (@PhilAirForce) November 26, 2023

In an interview, Philippine Armed Forces Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner told CNN that the A-29, which was flying alone, was orbited by two J-11 fighters (Chinese version of the Russian Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker) over the Hubo reef, in the Kalayaan archipelago.

Despite the presence of Chinese planes, the Philippine military managed to complete the mission. Brawner said no electronic or radio interference was detected. The action was recorded by one of the Super Tucano crew, as seen in the video below. 

Two Chinese J-11 fighter jets "orbited" a Philippine Air Force A-29B Super Tucano for 15 minutes during a joint patrol with Australia in the 'Hubo Reef' in the West Philippine Sea / South China Sea area. pic.twitter.com/OCSeHdCqIO

- FL360aero (@ fl360aero) November 28, 2023

The J-11 overflight during the exercise reinforces Beijing's position, which claims the entire region as its own. To combat this positioning, several countries carry out flights and navigations with military aircraft and ships in the area, reinforcing the condition of international waters.