China launched two-day routine patrols with its naval and air forces in the South China Sea on January 3, the military’s Southern Theater Command said. China’s military did not say where exactly the patrols would be held, but they were announced amid ongoing tensions in disputed territories. This comes as the Philippines and the US are also carrying out a two-day joint patrol in the highly strategic waterway, a move that likely irked Beijing. China’s military said troops in the area will be on high alert at all times and defend national sovereignty, security and maritime rights.