China deploys armed JL-10 trainers to intercept Philippine aircraft over Scarborough Shoal

China used armed JL-10 trainer jets carrying PL-5 missiles to drive away Philippine light aircraft over Scarborough Shoal, marking a potentially cost-effective escalation in its aerial interception tactics. The incident, documented by the PLA Southern Theatre Command, underscores heightened tensions in the South China Sea. This is a continuation of recent confrontations, but the use of armed trainers is a notable tactical shift.