China operating military flights from South China Sea bases: Report

As China begins the construction of world’s first commercial small modular reactor (SMR), the country’s military has deployed electronic warning and surveillance aircraft and helicopters on two disputed islands in the South China Sea, the Washington Times reported.

Satellite images procured by the publication reveal deployment had begun in May and June of PLA KJ-500 airborne warning and control aircraft to Mischief Reef in the Spratly Island. Moreover, other satellite captures show the stationing of a Y-9 transport aircraft and Z-8 helicopter to Subi Reef in June and this month. Last year, KQ-200 anti-submarine warfare aircraft were deployed on Fiery Cross Reef.