US Navy has deployed it's most advanced maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), the P-8A Poseidon in Singapore for the first time. The P-8 MPA is a Boeing 737 modified with advanced sensors for hunting submarines. It is also capable of electronic intelligence (ELINT) gathering.
The deployment of the P-8A is significant considering that the US Navy is cautiously challenging China on freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. On 26 Oct, USS Larsen made a sortie through areas around the Spratly Islands claimed by China as its territorial waters. On 12 Nov, two USAF B-52 Flying Fortresses flew near the islands again, although not within 12-miles limit claimed by China.
Comment:
China has criticized the deployment as further militarization of the South China Sea region. It is probably concerned about the ELINT activities of the United States as it seeks to strengthen its position and claim to islands in the South China sea.
Navy Times
The deployment of the P-8A is significant considering that the US Navy is cautiously challenging China on freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. On 26 Oct, USS Larsen made a sortie through areas around the Spratly Islands claimed by China as its territorial waters. On 12 Nov, two USAF B-52 Flying Fortresses flew near the islands again, although not within 12-miles limit claimed by China.
Comment:
China has criticized the deployment as further militarization of the South China Sea region. It is probably concerned about the ELINT activities of the United States as it seeks to strengthen its position and claim to islands in the South China sea.
Navy Times
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