The armed forces of the People's Republic of China have conducted high-tech military drills covering modern warfare scenarios in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea basin. The main objective of the drills was to develop commanders' decision-making skills in wartime conditions without engaging in real combat.
The editorial reports, citing sources, that according to China's state television CCTV, these drills are aimed at increasing the combat readiness of military leadership by creating a low-cost, immersive, and repeatable environment. It was stated that various tactical scenarios were applied within the framework of the maneuvers.
During the drills, a simulated air combat was also conducted between Chinese-made J-16 fighter jets and French-made Rafale fighter jets. Through this scenario, the effectiveness of drone and manned aerial operations was tested.
It is noted that the aforementioned military activity coincides with a time when the United States is increasing its military presence in the Caribbean within the framework of the "Southern Spear" operation. Although the US side stated that this operation is directed against drug trafficking networks, an increase in strategic tension in the region is emphasized.