The People’s Liberation Army of China announced that a fighter jet crashed near Hainan Island during a training exercise on Saturday. It was reported that the pilot successfully ejected using the aircraft’s ejection system and that the crash did not cause any damage on the ground.

Crash Occurred in a Region Under the Southern Theatre Command

A statement from the Chinese Navy’s social media account indicated that the fighter jet involved in the crash was affiliated with the Southern Theatre Command. This command oversees critical areas, including the South China Sea, one of China’s most sensitive regions. Recently, tensions have frequently arisen in the region between Chinese and Philippine vessels.

Cause of the Crash Under Investigation

While efforts to remove the aircraft wreckage are ongoing, a comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the incident. The navy has stated that necessary precautions were taken following the crash.

Regional Tensions Persist

As China continues to reinforce its territorial claims over disputed reefs and islands in the South China Sea, countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia are also striving to uphold their own claims. Last month, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that a Chinese Navy helicopter carried out dangerous manoeuvres over Scarborough Shoal.

NEW: Chinese naval fighter jet crashes during a training exercise https://t.co/jlFF1bbKeO pic.twitter.com/NjNqs73XA2

— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) March 15, 2025