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US-China tensions

U.S. Navy releases first photos of Chinese balloon recovery

Balloon was an estimated 60 meters tall and was carrying long sensor package

U.S. Navy sailors assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2 recover a suspected Chinese high-altitude surveillance balloon that was downed off the coast of Myrtle Beach, U.S. on Feb. 5. (U.S. Fleet Forces/U.S. Navy via Reuters) 

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Using underwater drones, warships and inflatable vessels, the Navy is carrying out an extensive operation to gather all of the pieces of the massive Chinese spy balloon a U.S. fighter jet shot down off the coast of South Carolina on Saturday.

In the newest images released by the Navy on Tuesday, sailors from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2 are seen leaning over a rigid hull inflatable boat and pulling in broad swaths of the balloon's white outer fabric and shell structure.

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