destroyer sparked immediate outrage from china and a warning. >> translator: if relevant parties insist on creating tensions in the region and making trouble out of nothing, it may force china to draw the conclusion that we need to strengthen and hasten the buildup of our relevant capabilities. i advise the u.s. not to create such a self-fulfilling prophecy. >> reporter: but defense secretary ash carter testifying on capitol hill today made clear the missions will continue. >> we will fly, sail and operate wherever international law permits in whatever -- whenever our operation needs required. >> reporter: the uss lasson sailed within 12 miles of five reefs claimed by china as sovereign territory, including where china has constructed one of several manmade islands. chinese navy ships and aircraft trailed the uss lasson at all times. during the transit, one of the chinese vessels contacted the