A CHINESE Shenyang J-16 fighter jet performed an “unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre” during the intercept of a US Air Force Boeing RC-135 reconnaissance plane over the South China Sea last week, the US Indo-Pacific Command said yesterday. 

The incident took place on Friday, according to Andolu Agency citing a statement from the command.

“The PRC pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence. The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law,” said the statement. 

The command said the US will “continue to fly, sail and operate, safely and responsibly, wherever international law allows.”  – Bernama, May 31 2023.