Chinese Underwater Drone Retrieved in Philippines, Raises Concerns for State Security

manila - A Chinese underwater drone suspected to be of Chinese origin was recovered in the sea around the Philippines, raising concerns for state security. The drone, marked as HY-119, was found by local fishermen and handed over to authorities.

A submarine drone suspected to be of Chinese origin has been retrieved from the sea around the Philippines, triggering concerns for state security. The drone, identified with the marking HY-119, was discovered floating about 9 kilometers off the coast of San Pascual in the province of Masbate, according to a police report.

The regional police chief Andre Dizon informed the press that the yellow drone, measuring approximately 2 meters in length and equipped with fins, was handed over to the authorities. According to Dizon, HY-119 corresponds to a Chinese underwater navigation and communication system.

"It has an antenna and an eye. Based on our investigation, it could be used for monitoring and exploration," said Dizon, clarifying that the drone was not armed. He mentioned that the drone has been transferred to the Philippine Navy for further inspection.

The Philippines and China have been at odds for years over maritime rights in the South China Sea, particularly concerning ownership of reefs and islets in the region. China claims a vast portion of the sea, disregarding claims from other nations as well as an international ruling that invalidated the Chinese claim.