China launches first simulated cross-border air strike as part of Central Asian drill

[Gerald]

BEIJING (AP) — China has launched its first-ever cross-border simulated air strike as part of joint drills with Russia, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian States, state media reported Tuesday.

Six Chinese planes, including four bombers and two fighter jets, crossed from China into Kazakhstan as part of the mock mission, Xinhua News Agency said.

The exercise also included support from early warning aircraft and in-flight refueling, showcasing China's efforts to build a credible air deterrent able to strike over long distances, Xinhua said.

The mission was part of increasingly sophisticated annual regional security drills that this year include 5,000 troops from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan. The reports did not say when the mission was carried out.

http://www.foxnews.com/world/2010/09...-asian-drills/





Note:Published September 21, 2010