Official statements from the U.S. Department of Defense or major news outlets

China and Russia Hold Ninth Joint Air Patrol Over Sea of Japan, Debut H-6N Bomber

Nov 29, 2024, 06:21 AM

On November 29, 2024, the Chinese and Russian militaries conducted their ninth joint strategic air patrol over the Sea of Japan, according to China's Ministry of National Defense and state broadcaster CCTV. Conducted over relevant airspace, the patrol was part of the two nations' annual cooperation plan and aimed to enhance their air forces' joint exercise and operational capabilities. This mission marked the first time China's H-6N bomber participated, escorted by J-16 fighter jets alongside Russia's Tu-95 bombers. The joint initiative underscores the deepening defense relations between China and Russia and is seen as a strategic move to check the influence of Japan and the United States in the region.