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China deploys WZ-7 reconnaissance drone near Scarborough Shoal in drills
Beijing said it also ran joint air and naval exercises around the disputed shoal during Sunday drills, with the WZ-7 operating alongside fighter aircraft from multiple airfields.
China deployed a WZ-7 high-altitude reconnaissance drone in the South China Sea for the first time during drills near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, according to SCMP Economy. The deployment came during exercises in waters and airspace around the shoal announced by China’s People’s Liberation Army Southern Theatre Command.
SCMP Economy reported that the WZ-7 took part in the drills and operated alongside various types of fighter aircraft taking off from multiple airfields. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV also said the drone flew as part of the exercise.
The report noted that Scarborough Shoal is viewed as a flashpoint between China and the Philippines, with each side claiming ownership of the coral atoll. In China it is known as Huangyan Island, while the Philippines calls it Panatag Shoal.