CRI听力:Chinese Air Force Aircraft Fly through Miyako Strait for Drill

The Chinese Airforce has taken part in another set of drills, this time flying over the Miyako Strait for the first time.

The Miyako Strait lies between the Japanese islands of Miyako and Okinawa.

Chinese Airforce spokesperson Shen Jinke says the drills themselves are part of their normal procedures.

"Organizing offshore drills is common practice for air forces of countries which have to protect the sea. It's a justified need of China's defense and army building. In line with international laws and practices, the Air Force will continue to conduct high-sea training in the areas beyond the First Island Chain in light of practical conditions."

The First Island Chain is a series of islands that stretch from Japan down to the Philippines.

The drill itself is the second such drill over the last 2-months.

The Airforce conducted its first-ever exercise in the western Pacific in March over the Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.