In the last few years, China has been constructing a group of artificial islands in the Pacific, aiming to strengthen its position in a region where territorial claims have intensified. With them, China seeks to consolidate its presence in the South China Sea, a strategically important area rich in natural resources. Notably, about one-third of the world’s maritime trade passes through this region.
However, the full extent of China’s intentions was only revealed recently through satellite images.
Radars and beyond. The area is abundant in oil, natural gas, and fishery resources, all vital to the Chinese economy. Considering its competition with the U.S. and territorial claims from neighboring countries such as Vietnam and the Philippines, China sees it as essential to establish a significant military and surveillance presence.
Recent images show the construction of a counter-stealth radar on Triton Island, a disputed reef in the enclave. According to an analysis by the think tank Chatham House, this infrastructure is designed to enhance tracking capabilities for aircraft and vessels in the region while limiting the operations of stealth aircraft, particularly those from the U.S. This radar is part of a broader series of similar developments on other reefs and reinforces the surveillance network in the area. Additionally, China has established a missile launching point nearby.
Scaring off the U.S. Satellite images also indicate that China is modernizing its outpost on Triton Island. This includes building a launch site for anti-ship missiles and an advanced radar system in the southwestern part of the Paracel archipelago.
Michael Dahm, a senior resident fellow at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, told The Guardian, “By constraining the U.S. ability to operate stealth aircraft, and threaten stealth aircraft, these capabilities in the South China Sea send a powerful signal to U.S. allies and partners in the region that the U.S. advanced technologies may not be able to stand up to the PLA [People’s Liberation Army].”
Location and tensions. Triton, a reef covering 120 hectares, is a crucial site in the Southwestern Paracel Islands. China has controlled this area since 1974 following a conflict with Vietnam, but both Taiwan and Vietnam also claim ownership of these islands, which contributes to regional tensions. Additionally, the area is rich in fishing and energy resources, further enhancing its geopolitical significance. Additionally, China asserts a large portion of the South China Sea as its own, despite an international tribunal rejecting its claims.
What about the U.S.? Although the U.S. hasn’t claimed any territory in the South China Sea, the country considers these sea lanes essential for its trade and security. In fact, it regularly conducts freedom of navigation operations in the area and maintains a defense alliance with the Philippines, pledging support in the event of attacks in the region.
Risks of conflict. Over the past two years, some countries have accused China of acting aggressively in and around these waters, leading to increased tensions. Recently, Vietnam accused Chinese forces of attacking Vietnamese fishermen near the Paracel Islands, which highlights the delicate situation and the potential for escalation.
If the Chatham House analysts are correct, Triton’s radar could complicate navigation for U.S., British, and Australian fleets. This concern is compounded by the development of infrastructure that seems to include an anti-ship missile platform, serving as a warning and reinforcing China’s defense in the archipelago.
Image | Maxar
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