The China Coast Guard deployed multiple vessels Sunday for a law enforcement and control exercise in the waters near Huangyan Dao, sharpening rapid-response and emergency-handling capabilities.

Combat alarms rang out across the flotilla — including the Wanshan, Chuanshan and Sifang — sending the ships swinging onto new headings as they raced toward designated waters. Law enforcement crews rushed to their stations and readied for action.

"It is 8 a.m. on September 27, and I'm aboard the China Coast Guard vessel Wanshan, sailing in the waters off Huangyan Dao. Just off my starboard bow lies Huangyan Dao itself," CMG reporter Wu Bing reported from the scene. "Several CCG vessels are now running a rights-protection and control drill — the Wanshan I'm on, plus the Chuanshan and Sifang nearby. They represent different tonnages and classes. Today's exercise centers on boarding and inspection, blocking vessels that try to force their way through, and compulsory towing. It's a test of how well multiple ships coordinate, respond fast, and handle emergencies."