China sends patrol ship into disputed South China Sea

China has sent one of it largest patrol ships through the South China Sea amid heightened tension over the disputed waters, BBC reported.

The Haixun-31 sailed on Wednesday and will monitor shipping and "protect maritime security" on its way to Singapore, state media said.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman described the trip as routine.

Several Asian nations claim territory in the waters that include shipping lanes and may contain oil and gas.