Japan reported on Dec. 6, 2014, that a Chinese Y9 intelligence gathering plane, two Y8 early warning planes and two H6 bombers were observed flying over an area between Okinawa's main island of Okinawa and Miyako island.
Chinese military commentator Li Xiaojian said the jets may have departed for the Western Pacific to take part in a large-scale naval and air combat exercise, in which Chinese naval ships also participated. This also signals that China has the joint combat capability of combining its naval and air power.
The aircraft later flew back over the East China Sea. This is the first time in nine months that Chinese military aircraft have made a return flight between the East China Sea and the Pacific after passing through an area between Okinawa's main island and Miyako island. Though the Chinese military aircraft did not violate Japanese airspace, this is the first time since Oct. 3 that Japan has responded.
Li Xiaojian said the Y-9 aircraft is equipped with an advanced electronic reconnaissance system which allows it to detect and intercept air and sea targets. The Y-8 aircraft is one of China's most popular military and civilian transport/cargo aircraft which is capable of carrying troops, dropping supplies, conducting parachute drops, and functioning as an air ambulance. The Y-6 and water surface ships serve as platforms for the launch of attack missiles.
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