March 20, 2012 10:47
The Coast Guard deployed an additional aircraft on Korea's southern sea to patrol nearby waters including an outcropping off Ieo island. This comes amid escalating tensions between Seoul and Beijing after a Chinese official claimed the rocks lie in waters that fall under Chinese jurisdiction.
The deployed CN-235 fixed-wing airplane can fly for up to seven hours at a speed of 400 km per hour, according to maritime authorities. It added that the aircraft is fitted with a cutting-edge radar system, thermal equipment, flares and equipment for dropping lifeboats.
The coast guard currently maintains six CN-235s. They are engaged in duties such as tracking illegal fishing vessels and maintaining security in Korea's coastal areas.
- Copyright © Chosunilbo & Chosun.com