China deployed its military forces on Tuesday to carry out patrols surrounding Huangyan Island in the South China Sea, according to the Southern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army.

The command said in a statement on Tuesday evening that it organized naval and air forces to conduct combat-readiness patrols in the territorial waters, airspace, and surrounding areas of Huangyan Island on the day.

Throughout July, the command has continued to intensify patrols in the region, reinforcing its control over the airspace and waters surrounding the island to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, it stated.