A Chinese air force formation conducted a regular patrol exercise that passed the Bashi Channel and Miyako Strait on Monday, an air force spokesperson confirmed Tuesday.

中国空军一位发言人周二证实，一支空军编队周一飞越巴士海峡和宫古海峡进行了一次常规巡查。

The formation consisted of H-6K bombers, Su-30 and J-11 fighters, reconnaissance aircraft, early warning aircraft and tanker aircraft, said Shen Jinke, spokesman for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force, at a meeting of senior air force officers.

The drill aimed to improve long-distance combat mobility and readiness as well as the ability to "safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity," Shen said.

"The PLA Air Force is progressing into a modern strategic armed force with the ability to fight in all domains," he said.

The air force conducted high-sea training exercises in line with international law and practice, he said.