China confirmed on Monday that its air force has carried out its first ever drill over the western Pacific Ocean, a move that is likely to escalate tension with its neighbours.

China's official Xinhua News Agency reported that the aircraft passed through the Bashi Channel, a disputed area claimed by Taiwan and the Philippines.

The exercise is likely to be viewed as a provocative act. China has been engaged in disputes with its neighbours over the sovereignty of the Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal and Spratly Islands in the South China Sea.

Long-range bombers likely to be the Xian H-6, were deployed for the drill. Modelled on the Russian Tu-16, the Xian H-6 measures 34.8 metres long and has a 33 metre wingspan.

The Xian H-6 can reach a maximum speed of 1,050 kilometres per hour and is able to carry six cruise missiles.

In November 2013, China also unilaterally declared an air defense identification zone in the East China Sea.

Some in the Japanese media believe China may soon announce a similar zone over the South China Sea.

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