The Philippine Navy said it recovered a large piece of suspected rocket debris northwest of Tubbataha Reef, believed to be from a Long March 12 rocket launched by China. The operation took place on November 11 in Philippine waters.
A Navy surveillance aircraft first spotted the floating object about 60 nautical miles from the reef. BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17), which was nearby, was deployed to the location and confirmed it as suspected space debris.
The ship launched a rigid-hull inflatable boat to retrieve the material, which measured about 12 by 21 feet. The recovery was completed the same afternoon.
The debris was brought to the Western Naval Command headquarters for documentation and technical assessment. Officials will determine its origin and the proper disposition.
WESNAVCOM Commander Rear Admiral Vincent Sibala commended the crew and emphasized the need for constant maritime monitoring to ensure the safety of Philippine waters.
