China warns warships COMBAT READY as US nuclear bombers blast over overhead
CHINA has warned its biggest warship is now combat ready as US nuclear bombers swooped on the disputed South China Sea.
By Henry Holloway
DailyStar.co.uk
6th June 2018
The People’s Liberation Army-Navy confirmed its aircraft carrier strike group – led by 67,500 tone Liaoning – is now ready for war.
China’s defence ministry said the force, which contains warships and submarines, now has “combat capability”.
It came as tensions continue to rise between Washington and Moscow over the disputed waters of the South China Sea.
Hours after the announcement it was confirmed two US B-52 bombers had flown overhead near Chinese bases around the Spratly Islands.
China has been constructing manmade islands around the region, turning them into stationary aircraft carriers bristling with missiles.
Chinese forces have been boosting their navy power amid fears of a clash with the US over the South China Sea.
Beijing claims the waters by right, despite a UN ruling in 2016 deciding the disputed region does not belong to China.
Liaoning can carry up to 40 aircraft and is also armed with defensive missile systems and 2,000 crew.
It is a former Soviet Union vessel – originally named Varyag – and was sold to China half-finished by Ukraine back in 2000.
US forces regularly carry out what they have dubbed “freedom” missions around the South China Sea.
The flights by warplanes and cruises by warships are designed to show China they will not be denied form the region.
Two US vessels were involved in a showdown with Chinese ships last week in what was branded a “serious incident”.
Chinese foreign ministry officials have branded the US as “running amok” in the region.
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