Tensions rose in the Pacific after China and Russia carried out their 11th joint strategic air patrol, flying strategic bombers and advanced fighter jets over the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea, and the western Pacific in a major display of military cooperation. The mission featured Chinese H-6K bombers and Russian Tu-95MS strategic bombers, escorted by Chinese J-11B, J-16, Su-30MKK/MK2 and J-10B fighters, as well as Russian Su-30SM and Su-35 jets. The flight prompted Japan and South Korea to scramble fighter jets to monitor the aircraft, underscoring heightened regional tensions. A day later, U.S. and Japanese forces conducted live-fire drills in southern Japan as part of the Resolute Dragon exercise, highlighting the growing military activity and strategic competition unfolding across the Indo-Pacific.