Chinese and Russian jets prompt South Korea scramble
On Friday, Chinese and Russian military aircraft entered South Korea's air defence identification zone, prompting Seoul to scramble fighter jets.
29 November 2024 12:48
Five Chinese and six Russian military aircraft entered South Korea's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) early Friday morning without prior notice. In response to this breach, the South Korean Air Force scrambled fighter jets.
The incident took place over the Sea of Japan and waters off South Korea's southern coast. The Chinese and Russian air forces were conducting joint exercises there on Friday.
Foreign aircraft in South Korea's airspace
According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, the aircraft entered the ADIZ within four hours from 12:35 AM Greenwich Time. China had previously notified about a joint air patrol with Russia in the region.
As the Polish Press Agency reported, although the foreign military aircraft entered the air identification zone, they did not violate South Korea's airspace. This is consistent with international law.
The ADIZ is an area where the military identifies and monitors aircraft in the interest of national security. Aircraft approaching this zone should report their intent to enter in advance.
These zones are not recognised by international law, but they operate in many countries, including China, Japan, and the USA.
