China tests landing ships amid tensions with Philippines

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has recently conducted military exercises in the South China Sea involving landing ships amidst increasing tensions with the Philippines over disputed islands.

According to a report by CCTV, a naval task force comprising landing ships Danxiashan, Laotieshan, and Lushan engaged in comprehensive combat exercises lasting four days, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

The drills, described as all-weather full-course exercises, included tasks such as ship berthing maneuvers and rescue operations.

The PLA fleet also conducted air-defense training, successfully repelling simulated drone threats using multiple rounds of fire, as depicted in CCTV footage. Danxiashan, identified as a Type 072 III tank landing ship, demonstrated its capabilities by deploying smoke for cover missions, as shown in the video.

These exercises aimed to assess the Chinese navy’s emergency response capabilities and its ability to coordinate combat operations. Landing ships like Lushan, categorized as a Type 073A vessel, play crucial roles in amphibious operations by transporting troops, vehicles, and supplies directly to islands and reefs.

The drills come amidst ongoing tensions between Beijing and Manila in the South China Sea, particularly concerning Second Thomas Shoal, known as Renai Jiao to China and Ayungin Shoal to the Philippines.

Recent confrontations included a Chinese coastguard "boarding inspection" of a Philippine vessel engaged in a supply mission, resulting in accusations of physical attacks and vessel damage by Manila, with injuries reported among Philippine sailors.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. responded defiantly, asserting his country’s resolve against intimidation and urging military personnel to continue defending national interests.

The PLA’s recent exercises follow previous drills involving PLA Navy landing ships and other naval assets in disputed waters, reflecting heightened military activities in the region.