A Chinese fighter pilot “performed an unsafe maneuver” whereas near a U.S. Air Force airplane, United States officers mentioned Thursday.
The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command mentioned in a press release that the fighter pilot flew in entrance of and inside 20 ft of the nostril of the RC-135 plane the U.S. pilot was flying on Dec. 21, 2022.
The American pilot was flying lawfully over the South China Sea, the command mentioned, however was compelled to “take evasive maneuvers” to keep away from a collision. Neither pilot has been recognized.
“The U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Force is dedicated to a free and open Indo-Pacific region and will continue to fly, sail and operate at sea and in international airspace with due regard for the safety of all vessels and aircraft under international law,” officers mentioned. “We expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to use international airspace safely and in accordance with international law.”
Video of the incident was shared by the command, and the temporary clip reveals the Chinese airplane approaching the American jet earlier than the pilot begins evasive maneuvers.
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