Beijing hit back Monday at allegations it was “militarizing” the South China Sea after landing bombers at an airbase in the contested waters, accusing Washington instead of raising tensions with its own military footprint. China on Friday for the first time landed several combat aircraft – including the long range, nuclear strike-capable H-6K – at an island airfield in the sea, triggering international concern. The move prompted immediate criticism from the US, with a Pentagon spokesman condemning China’s “continued militarization of disputed features in the South China Sea.”

China denies 'militarizing' allegations in SCS. (2018, May 23). The Philippine Star, p.12.