Tensions rise as US warships patrol South China Sea (Image: GETTY)
The two guided-missile destroyers sailed near the Chinese manmade islands of Mischief Reef. Tensions in the region have soared recently as the US has continued to show its military presence while Beijing has tried to increase its territory in the area. The two warships completed their passage in a move that China has constantly objected to.
Commander Clay Doss said: “US Forces operate in the Indo-Pacific region on a daily basis, including in the South China Sea.
“All operations are designed in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows.
“That is true in the South China Sea as in other places around the globe.”
Commander Doss also added that the two warships were there to “preserve access” to waterways “governed by international law”.
