This footage, captured by a Filipino researcher with the University of the Philippines and their Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, shows the Chinese Navy using a helicopter to continue to harass Filipino civilians in the West Philippine/ South China Sea.

Several workers and researchers reported being injured as the rotor wash from the Chinese Changhe Z-8 blasted sand and coral shards around among the workers. It's worth noting that the research being conducted on these sand bars is specifically to help determine whether ongoing Chinese activities in the area are damaging coral reefs. Furthermore, the Z-8 is a medium-lift helicopter, with a max takeoff weight of 28,660 lbs, and large rotors that disperse the force necessary to lift that weight over 3000 square feet. In other words, the damage that helicopter could do to both the researchers and the coral itself was likely not an oversight.

Other footage of the continued Chinese harassment tactics regarding their territorial dispute with the Philippines can be found here and here.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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