6C-Adversaries: West Pacific (2001-)

This collection features weapons used in the Western Pacific region during notable confrontations and intercepts involving U.S. forces during my service as a defense contractor.

CHINA
China adopted an increasingly aggressive and hostile stance toward intercepting U.S. reconnaissance and signals intelligence aircraft operating in international waters over the South China Sea. Between 2021 and 2023, the Pentagon reported over 200 such interceptions, where Chinese aircraft performed reckless maneuvers, flew within 10 feet of U.S. aircraft, and dispensed flares from an unsafe distance. These actions are part of ongoing tensions over territorial disputes in the region. The following aircraft models were used by China as interceptors:
* JH-7A Flounder (PLA Air Force)
* J-10AH Firebird (PLA Naval Air Force)
* J-11BH Flanker-L (PLA Naval Air Force)
* J-16 Flanker-N (PLA Air Force)

INDONESIA
In the 2003 Bawean incident, Indonesian aircraft intercepted and engaged U.S. Navy F/A-18C aircraft over disputed international waters in the Java Sea. During the interception, the aircraft involved achieved radar lock-on and activated electronic warfare systems. Fortunately, the engagement ended once radio communications were established and the intent of the U.S. aircraft was clarified.
- F-16B OCU Fighting Falcon (IDAF)

NORTH KOREA
In a 2003 incident, North Korean aircraft intercepted a USAF RC-135S Cobra Ball aircraft flying 150 miles off the coast. The MiG-29s were armed. When a MiG-29 initiated radar lock-on, the RC-135S was forced to perform evasive emergency maneuvers to avoid a potential missile engagement.
* MiG-23ML Flogger-G (Korean People's Army Air Force)
- MiG-29 Fulcrum-A (Korean People's Army Air Force)

* Wishlist