By Ojo Jeremiah Oladipupo (Siwes student, Efon Poly)
South Korea’s military took defensive measures by deploying fighter jets when two Chinese and four Russian military planes entered its air defense zone.
The incursion occurred in the Korea Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ) in the East Sea from 11:53 am to 12:10 pm, according to Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff.
While there was no airspace invasion, the South Korean military identified the planes beforehand and activated its air force to prepare for contingencies.
An air defense identification zone is a security measure covering a larger area than a country’s airspace, and it is not formally defined in international treaties.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson described the incident as routine flight activity over international waters.
Despite ongoing disputes, China, Russia, and North Korea express their commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
Tensions have risen, with the United States and its allies conducting freedom of navigation crossings, particularly in the Taiwan Strait, to emphasize these waterways’ international status.
The recent satellite launch by North Korea, with alleged assistance from Moscow, has strained inter-Korean relations, leading to increased security measures along the demilitarized zone.
This incident echoes previous instances where South Korea deployed fighter jets in response to joint air force patrols by China and Russia.
Notably, none of the planes in these instances crossed into South Korea’s airspace, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its borders.
