China has accused the US of trespass and violating rules by allowing its military aircraft to fly into a no-fly zone.

The US Air Force’s U-2 high-altitude spy reconnaissance aircraft is said to have conducted a sortie during which it flew into the designated airspace.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The no-fly zone was established by the People’s Liberation Army Northern Theater Command for live-fire exercises.

Chinese National Defense Ministry military spokesperson Wu Qian has condemned the flight and called the act ‘an obvious provocation’.

In a statement, Wu Qian was quoted by Xinhuanet as saying: “The trespass severely affected China’s normal exercises and training activities and violated the rules of behaviour for air and maritime safety between China and the United States, as well as relevant international practices.”

“The US action could easily have resulted in misjudgements and even accidents.”

“China firmly opposes such provocative actions and has lodged solemn representations with the US side.”

Meanwhile, US Pacific Air Forces told CNN that the flight did not breach any rules.

In a statement, US Pacific Air Forces was quoted by CNN as saying: “A U-2 sortie was conducted in the Indo-Pacific area of operations and within the accepted international rules and regulations governing aircraft flights.

“Pacific Air Forces personnel will continue to fly and operate anywhere international law allows, at the time and tempo of our choosing.”