Beijing’s Blurred Lines Between Military and Non-military Shipping in South China Sea could Raise Risk of Flashpoint

05 May 2019

A recent incident in which up to 275 Chinese vessels were spotted near the Philippine-occupied island of Thitu, part of the disputed Spratly chain, angered Manila and highlighted the concerns about potential flashpoints. The vessels, mostly fishing boats, are likely to have taken shelter in facilities Beijing has sponsored on artificial islands in the South China Sea, according to analysts. Collin Koh, an international studies specialist at NTU Singapore, said, “These boats can also retire to these facilities for rest and replenishment and then return to station off Thitu Island again – obviating the need to return to mainland fishing ports.”

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Last updated on 07/05/2019