AP, BEIJINGThe Chinese and Russian navies yesterday launched eight days of war games in the South China Sea, in a sign of growing cooperation between their armed forces against the backdrop of regional territorial disputes. China’s South Sea Fleet will make up the bulk of the forces, along with some elements from the North and East Sea fleets, Liang said. The ministry did not say exactly where the drills would be held in the South China Sea. While China says the drills do not envision specific enemies or target any third parties, their location in the South China Sea has drawn criticism. China would contribute 10 ships, including destroyers, frigates and submarines, along with 11 fixed-wing aircraft, eight helicopters, 160 marines and amphibious armor, Xinhu said.

Source: Taipei Times September 12, 2016 15:56 UTC