2 fighter jets spotted near Kalayaan Island, says AFP

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine military said two unidentified foreign fighter jets have been spotted flying near an area claimed by the country in the South China Sea, but that they made no hostile move.

An Armed Forces of the Philippines statement said Saturday that on May 11 two Philippine patrol planes were at 5,500 feet (1,700 meters) over the Kalaayan Island Group in the Spratlys when they saw the jets’ condensation trails at least 18,000 feet (5,500 meters) above them.

The Spratly Islands are claimed in whole or in part by the Philippines, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, Brunei and Vietnam.

The pilots were unable to identify the jets and their markings since they were at such a high altitude.

The Spratlys are believed to be rich in oil and fishing.

Originally posted 7:45 pm | Saturday, May 21st, 2011