<p>In another display of its heavy-handed tactics in the South China Sea, China anchored its “monster ship” in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on Saturday (July 6). The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was on alert when&nbsp;the gigantic Chinese vessel&nbsp;entered Manila’s 200-nautical mile EEZ.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 165-metre China Coast Guard vessel named CCG-5901 was anchored near Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands, as per CNN.</p>

<p>Coast guard vessels are used for patrolling the coastline of a country, what makes this event unusual is not just the area in which patrolling was done but also the size of the Chinese patrolling vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is China’s ‘monster’ ship? What is so unusual about it?</strong></h2>

<p>All countries with coastal lines along seas have robust naval forces, comprising of a Navy and Coast Guards. The country’s Navy generally have the big toys of the game like frigates, nuclear submarines, warships and aircraft carriers. The Coast Guards, on the other hand, have comparatively small vessels used for patrolling the coastal borders.</p>

<p>These coastal patrolling vessels are usually small in size and have small displacement. For instance, the Indian Coast Guards have coastal ships of about 1,800-3,900 tonnes- which is considered an ideal size for a patrolling vessel worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manila-beijing-tensions-in-south-china-sea-escalate-into-violence-738379/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>However, when it comes to Chinese coastal vessel, CCG-5901, it has a displacement of 12,000 tonnes. It is said to be bigger than any regular Coast Guard ship in the world – barring a speciality US Coast Guard icebreaker – and even larger than some US Navy destroyers. This unusual size of a patrolling ship is a cue to the Chinese aggression in the South China Sea.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiPhfTX6JuHAxWmi68BHYAgAJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-detain-foreigners-for-trespassing-in-disputed-south-china-sea-731991" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-detain-foreigners-for-trespassing-in-disputed-south-china-sea-731991&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiPhfTX6JuHAxWmi68BHYAgAJoQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea</a></p>

<p>The CCG-5901 even has more firepower than its US counterparts. It has two main 76.2-millimetre guns compared to just one main 57-millimetre gun on the US vessels.</p>

<p>The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the vessel, which entered the 200-nautical mile, was meant to intimidate its smaller neighbour.</p>

<p>PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela said that the Chinese vessel was warned that it was in the Philippines’ EEZ and asked about their intentions. The Chinese ship, which has also deployed a small boat, was anchored 800 yards away from the PCG’s vessel, Tarriela said.</p>

<p>The CCG-5901 is five times bigger than the PCG’s ship.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Beijing inching closer to a war?</strong></h2>

<p>Many believe that Beijing is apparently trying to intimidate its smaller Asian neighbour, while others anticipate that it is inching closer to a war in the South China Sea with such flexing of military muscle. The latter anticipation also comes from the recent trend of many high-net-worth people leaving China- not just millionaires, but Chinese billionaires are also looking to move their cash and themselves out of the country, a move seen as a major precursor to an upcoming war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ray Powell, a South China Sea expert and director of SeaLight at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University, told CNN that ‘the monster’ has been roaming the EEZ since a clash near Second Thomas Shoal in June.</p>

<p>The Philippines has soldiers living aboard a rusty, ageing warship at the Second Thomas Shoal, which was deliberately grounded by Manila in 1999 to reinforce its maritime claims.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiw18zu6JuHAxXXdPUHHSPQBDA4ChDF9AEoAHoECA8QAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-navy-tear-down-chinese-fishing-nets-in-south-china-sea-729160" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-navy-tear-down-chinese-fishing-nets-in-south-china-sea-729160&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiw18zu6JuHAxXXdPUHHSPQBDA4ChDF9AEoAHoECA8QAQ">Philippines Navy tear down Chinese fishing nets in South China Sea</a></p>

<p>“Immediately following the dramatic standoff at Second Thomas Shoal … The Monster toured nearly every Philippine outpost and a key feature in the South China Sea,” Powell said.</p>

<p>“Its massive size enables it to intimidate its neighbours while avoiding the escalatory implications of sending a gray-hulled military vessel,” Powell added.</p>

<p>On June 17,&nbsp;Philippines and China clashed over the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, when some Filipino navy personnel were left injured as CCG personnel repeatedly rammed Philippine rubber boats to stop them from delivering food supplies, firearms and other necessities to BRP Sierra Madre.</p>

<p>The Philippines military had also shared the video of the June 17 incident on its official X handle.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RORE RECAP | During the AFP's critical humanitarian rotation and resupply operations at BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) in Ayungin Shoal on June 17, the China Coast Guard's use of violence and intimidation tactics damaged AFP vessels and severely injured Philippine Navy personnel.… <a href="https://t.co/KR0sIxuczY">pic.twitter.com/KR0sIxuczY</a></p>
— Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamAFP/status/1803771617476251944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The shoal off the northwestern Philippines has emerged as a new flashpoint in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Jun 17 incident, the CCG personnel were seen flaunting knives, an axe, and pointed sticks- similar unconventional weapons that were used during the 2020 Galwan standoff with India. Based on the videos and photos released by the Philippine military, the Navy boats were slashed and the navigational screen was smashed.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwic3pz66JuHAxVfmK8BHUzuDKYQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jinping-will-not-forget-former-indian-coas-recounts-2020-galwan-clash-in-his-memoir-670698" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jinping-will-not-forget-former-indian-coas-recounts-2020-galwan-clash-in-his-memoir-670698&amp;ved=2ahUKEwic3pz66JuHAxVfmK8BHUzuDKYQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">‘Xi will not forget`: Former Indian Army chief recounts 2020 Galwan clash in his memoir</a></p>

<p>The Asian neighbours previously agreed to hold what they call the Bicameral Consultative Mechanism meetings, first held in 2017, to peacefully manage their disputes.</p>

<p>India and Japan are also giving their full-fledged backing to the Philippines in this matter. Japan is also in talks with Manila to sign a defence pact, much similar to the mutual defence treaty between the Philippines and the US. But Manila knows that it needs more than just the US when it comes to countering China in the South China Sea, which is why we will see more military engagements of&nbsp;Philippines with India and Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In another display of its heavy-handed tactics in the South China Sea, China anchored its “monster ship” in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on Saturday (July 6).

In another display of its heavy-handed tactics in the South China Sea, China anchored its “monster ship” in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on Saturday (July 6). The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was on alert when the gigantic Chinese vessel entered Manila’s 200-nautical mile EEZ. The 165-metre China Coast Guard vessel named CCG-5901 was anchored near Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands, as per CNN. Coast guard vessels are used for patrolling the coastline of a country, what makes this event unusual is not just the area in which patrolling was done but also the size of the Chinese patrolling vessel. What is China’s ‘monster’ ship? What is so unusual about it? All countries with coastal lines along seas have robust naval forces, comprising of a Navy and Coast Guards. The country’s Navy generally have the big toys of the game like frigates, nuclear submarines, warships and aircraft carriers. The Coast Guards, on the other hand, have comparatively small vessels used for patrolling the coastal borders. These coastal patrolling vessels are usually small in size and have small displacement. For instance, the Indian Coast Guards have coastal ships of about 1,800-3,900 tonnes- which is considered an ideal size for a patrolling vessel worldwide. × However, when it comes to Chinese coastal vessel, CCG-5901, it has a displacement of 12,000 tonnes. It is said to be bigger than any regular Coast Guard ship in the world – barring a speciality US Coast Guard icebreaker – and even larger than some US Navy destroyers. This unusual size of a patrolling ship is a cue to the Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. Also Read | China can detain foreigners for trespassing in disputed South China Sea The CCG-5901 even has more firepower than its US counterparts. It has two main 76.2-millimetre guns compared to just one main 57-millimetre gun on the US vessels. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the vessel, which entered the 200-nautical mile, was meant to intimidate its smaller neighbour. PCG spokesperson Jay Tarriela said that the Chinese vessel was warned that it was in the Philippines’ EEZ and asked about their intentions. The Chinese ship, which has also deployed a small boat, was anchored 800 yards away from the PCG’s vessel, Tarriela said. The CCG-5901 is five times bigger than the PCG’s ship. Is Beijing inching closer to a war? Many believe that Beijing is apparently trying to intimidate its smaller Asian neighbour, while others anticipate that it is inching closer to a war in the South China Sea with such flexing of military muscle. The latter anticipation also comes from the recent trend of many high-net-worth people leaving China- not just millionaires, but Chinese billionaires are also looking to move their cash and themselves out of the country, a move seen as a major precursor to an upcoming war. Ray Powell, a South China Sea expert and director of SeaLight at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University, told CNN that ‘the monster’ has been roaming the EEZ since a clash near Second Thomas Shoal in June. The Philippines has soldiers living aboard a rusty, ageing warship at the Second Thomas Shoal, which was deliberately grounded by Manila in 1999 to reinforce its maritime claims. Also Read | Philippines Navy tear down Chinese fishing nets in South China Sea “Immediately following the dramatic standoff at Second Thomas Shoal … The Monster toured nearly every Philippine outpost and a key feature in the South China Sea,” Powell said. “Its massive size enables it to intimidate its neighbours while avoiding the escalatory implications of sending a gray-hulled military vessel,” Powell added. On June 17, Philippines and China clashed over the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, when some Filipino navy personnel were left injured as CCG personnel repeatedly rammed Philippine rubber boats to stop them from delivering food supplies, firearms and other necessities to BRP Sierra Madre. The Philippines military had also shared the video of the June 17 incident on its official X handle. RORE RECAP | During the AFP's critical humanitarian rotation and resupply operations at BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) in Ayungin Shoal on June 17, the China Coast Guard's use of violence and intimidation tactics damaged AFP vessels and severely injured Philippine Navy personnel.… pic.twitter.com/KR0sIxuczY — Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) June 20, 2024 × The shoal off the northwestern Philippines has emerged as a new flashpoint in the region. During the Jun 17 incident, the CCG personnel were seen flaunting knives, an axe, and pointed sticks- similar unconventional weapons that were used during the 2020 Galwan standoff with India. Based on the videos and photos released by the Philippine military, the Navy boats were slashed and the navigational screen was smashed. Also Read | ‘Xi will not forget`: Former Indian Army chief recounts 2020 Galwan clash in his memoir The Asian neighbours previously agreed to hold what they call the Bicameral Consultative Mechanism meetings, first held in 2017, to peacefully manage their disputes. India and Japan are also giving their full-fledged backing to the Philippines in this matter. Japan is also in talks with Manila to sign a defence pact, much similar to the mutual defence treaty between the Philippines and the US. But Manila knows that it needs more than just the US when it comes to countering China in the South China Sea, which is why we will see more military engagements of Philippines with India and Japan. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: What is unusual about China's 'monster' ship near Philippines? Is Beijing inching closer to war?

<p>China’s hegemonic ambitions and brazen acts of aggression in the South China Sea (SCS) pose significant threats to regional stability and the sanctity of international maritime law. These activities, including the recent interception of a Philippine resupply airdrop to the BRP Sierra Madre on May 19,&nbsp;highlight the urgent need for a robust and collective response to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and ensure regional security. While the immediate act of barbarism and what amounts to ‘pirate-like’ behaviour has gotten extensive coverage in the media, the strategic perspective is what I would like to pen down.</p>

<h2><strong>Personal insights and experiences</strong></h2>

<p>Having served in the Indian Navy for almost four decades, I have gained firsthand insight into the evolving maritime dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. My participation in numerous exercises and diplomatic engagements at various levels has provided me with a unique perspective on the strategic importance of the SCS and the formidable challenges posed by Beijing’s maritime assertiveness, disregard for rule-based order, and hegemonic ambitions.</p>

<h2><strong>Historical context of China’s claims</strong></h2>

<p>China’s expansive claims in the SCS, encapsulated by the nine-dash line, date back to the early 1950s. This line, stretching over 2,000 kilometres from the Chinese mainland, encompasses nearly the entire SCS, overlapping with the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of several Southeast Asian countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s 2016 ruling rejecting the nine-dash line, Beijing continues to assert its claims brazenly and aggressively, in blatant disregard of international law and the sovereignty of its neighbours.</p>

<h2><strong>Key historical events:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>●&nbsp;2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration Ruling:</strong> The tribunal rejected China’s historical claims within the nine-dash line, affirming that they have no legal basis under UNCLOS.</p>

<p><strong>●&nbsp;Scarborough Shoal Standoff (2012):</strong> China effectively seized control of this strategically vital area, harassing and denying access to Philippine fishing boats.</p>

<h2><strong>China’s aggressive actions in the SCS</strong></h2>

<p>The interception of the Philippine resupply airdrop to the BRP Sierra Madre exemplifies China’s aggressiveness. Armed Chinese personnel seized and discarded essential supplies, a continuation of a broader pattern of brazen aggression, intimidation and coercion.</p>

<h2><strong>Case studies:</strong></h2>

<p><strong>●&nbsp;Spratly Islands:</strong> China has established a significant military presence, constructing artificial islands equipped with runways, radar systems, and missile installations.</p>

<p><strong>●&nbsp;Paracel Islands:</strong> Under Chinese control since 1974, these islands are crucial for their proximity to major sea routes and potential underwater resources.</p>

<h2><strong>Violation of UNCLOS</strong></h2>

<p>The 1982&nbsp;United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea&nbsp;(UNCLOS) establishes a comprehensive legal framework for maritime activities, crucial for maintaining order at sea. China’s actions, including the interception of resupply missions and the militarisation of disputed territories, blatantly violate UNCLOS principles, undermining peace, regional stability, and the rule of law.</p>

<h2><strong>Grey zone warfare: Beyond the visible</strong></h2>

<p>China employs grey zone warfare tactics, which operate in the nebulous space between peace and open conflict. These tactics include economic manipulation, influence operations, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns to achieve strategic objectives without triggering full-scale war.</p>

<h2><strong>China’s grey zone tactics in the maritime domain</strong></h2>

<p>China leverages its Maritime Militia, Coast Guard, and dual-use research vessels to blur the lines between civilian and military operations, pursuing territorial ambitions with minimal risk of direct military confrontation.</p>

<h2><strong>The Dark Triad: China's three-pronged maritime strategy</strong></h2>

<p><strong>1.&nbsp;Maritime Militia:</strong> Known as the People’s Armed Forces Maritime Militia (PAFMM), these ostensibly civilian vessels conduct aggressive operations, such as surveillance, enforcing blockades, and harassing foreign ships.</p>

<p><strong>2.&nbsp;Dual-Use Research Vessels:</strong> While conducting scientific research, these ships gather extensive oceanographic data to support the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and enhance maritime surveillance.</p>

<p><strong>3. Coast Guard:</strong> The Chinese Coast Guard engages in overt acts of aggression and intimidation, as seen in the harassment of Philippine fishing boats at Scarborough Shoal.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on regional security</strong></h2>

<p>China’s actions threaten the sovereignty and security of Southeast Asian nations, disrupting regional maritime security and international trade routes. The militarisation of disputed territories, coupled with aggressive grey zone tactics, escalates tensions and undermines regional stability.</p>

<h2><strong>Responses from affected nations</strong></h2>

<p>Southeast Asian countries have responded through diplomatic, legal, and military means. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia have condemned China’s actions, sought legal recourse through international mechanisms, and increased their military readiness. Joint exercises with allies and public information campaigns have also effectively countered Chinese aggression.</p>

<h2><strong>International involvement and support</strong></h2>

<p>External powers and like-minded nations such as the United States, Japan, and Australia (also members of QUAD) play a crucial role in balancing China’s ambitions. Their naval presence and joint maritime exercises enhance regional security and support Southeast Asian nations in defending their sovereignty.</p>

<h2><strong>Strategies for countering China’s hegemony</strong></h2>

<p>Enhancing maritime security cooperation among Southeast Asian nations is essential to counter China’s hegemonic ambitions. Joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and increased defence investments are necessary to build regional resilience. Public information campaigns highlighting Chinese aggression can garner international support and pressure Beijing to adhere to international norms.</p>

<h2><strong>Rethinking the South China Sea in Indian Maritime Security Strategy</strong></h2>

<p>India’s strategic and economic interests in the SCS are growing, driven by significant trade routes and joint hydrocarbon exploration projects. The Indian Navy has increased its presence in the region, reflecting India’s commitment to regional peace, stability, rules-based order, and freedom of navigation.</p>

<p><strong>Challenges:</strong></p>

<p>●&nbsp;<strong>Intra-ASEAN Divisions:</strong> Diverse interests among ASEAN members complicate a unified stance against China.</p>

<p>●&nbsp;<strong>China’s Economic Influence:</strong> China’s significant economic footprint in the region hinders efforts to counter its dominance.</p>

<h2><strong>Policy recommendations and future projections</strong></h2>

<p>Given the complexities of the SCS, a multi-faceted approach is required.</p>

<p><strong>Policy Recommendations:</strong></p>

<p>1. <strong>Strengthen Regional Alliances:</strong> Foster stronger ties with ASEAN nations through regional naval exercises, capacity building, intelligence sharing, and defence cooperation.</p>

<p>2. <strong>Enhance Maritime Domain Awareness:</strong> Invest in advanced maritime surveillance technologies and collaborate with international partners.</p>

<p>3. <strong>Increase Economic Engagement:</strong> Deepen economic ties with Southeast Asian nations through trade agreements and joint ventures.</p>

<p>4. <strong>Promote Rule of Law:</strong> Advocate for adherence to international maritime law and support legal actions challenging China's claims.</p>

<p><strong>Future Projections:</strong></p>

<p>●&nbsp;<strong>Persistent Aggression:</strong> China’s aggressive posture in the SCS will likely continue, driven by strategic and economic interests.</p>

<p>●&nbsp;<strong>International Pressure:</strong> Regional and international pressure and strengthened alliances can mitigate risks and promote stability.</p>

<p>●&nbsp;<strong>Strategic Partnerships:</strong> Ongoing diplomatic efforts and strategic partnerships will be crucial in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.</p>

<h2><strong>Upholding the rule of law</strong></h2>

<p>A rules-based international order is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the SCS. Regional and international stakeholders must unite against China’s coercive tactics and uphold the principles of UNCLOS. Vigilance, solidarity, and persistent engagement are crucial to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>China’s brazen acts of aggression and grey zone tactics in the SCS involving its Navy, Coast Guard, Maritime Militia, and dual-use research vessels, pose significant threats to regional stability and international maritime law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>By understanding and countering China’s grey zone warfare, the international community can uphold the sovereignty of nations and maintain a rules-based order in the maritime domain. The time to act is now, for the region’s peace, stability and the integrity of international law depend on our collective resolve and action.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></em></p>


China’s hegemonic ambitions and brazen acts of aggression in the South China Sea (SCS) pose significant threats to regional stability and the sanctity of international maritime law.

China’s hegemonic ambitions and brazen acts of aggression in the South China Sea (SCS) pose significant threats to regional stability and the sanctity of international maritime law. These activities, including the recent interception of a Philippine resupply airdrop to the BRP Sierra Madre on May 19, highlight the urgent need for a robust and collective response to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and ensure regional security. While the immediate act of barbarism and what amounts to ‘pirate-like’ behaviour has gotten extensive coverage in the media, the strategic perspective is what I would like to pen down. Personal insights and experiences Having served in the Indian Navy for almost four decades, I have gained firsthand insight into the evolving maritime dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. My participation in numerous exercises and diplomatic engagements at various levels has provided me with a unique perspective on the strategic importance of the SCS and the formidable challenges posed by Beijing’s maritime assertiveness, disregard for rule-based order, and hegemonic ambitions. Historical context of China’s claims China’s expansive claims in the SCS, encapsulated by the nine-dash line, date back to the early 1950s. This line, stretching over 2,000 kilometres from the Chinese mainland, encompasses nearly the entire SCS, overlapping with the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of several Southeast Asian countries. Despite the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s 2016 ruling rejecting the nine-dash line, Beijing continues to assert its claims brazenly and aggressively, in blatant disregard of international law and the sovereignty of its neighbours. Key historical events: ● 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration Ruling: The tribunal rejected China’s historical claims within the nine-dash line, affirming that they have no legal basis under UNCLOS. ● Scarborough Shoal Standoff (2012): China effectively seized control of this strategically vital area, harassing and denying access to Philippine fishing boats. China’s aggressive actions in the SCS The interception of the Philippine resupply airdrop to the BRP Sierra Madre exemplifies China’s aggressiveness. Armed Chinese personnel seized and discarded essential supplies, a continuation of a broader pattern of brazen aggression, intimidation and coercion. Case studies: ● Spratly Islands: China has established a significant military presence, constructing artificial islands equipped with runways, radar systems, and missile installations. ● Paracel Islands: Under Chinese control since 1974, these islands are crucial for their proximity to major sea routes and potential underwater resources. Violation of UNCLOS The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) establishes a comprehensive legal framework for maritime activities, crucial for maintaining order at sea. China’s actions, including the interception of resupply missions and the militarisation of disputed territories, blatantly violate UNCLOS principles, undermining peace, regional stability, and the rule of law. Grey zone warfare: Beyond the visible China employs grey zone warfare tactics, which operate in the nebulous space between peace and open conflict. These tactics include economic manipulation, influence operations, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns to achieve strategic objectives without triggering full-scale war. China’s grey zone tactics in the maritime domain China leverages its Maritime Militia, Coast Guard, and dual-use research vessels to blur the lines between civilian and military operations, pursuing territorial ambitions with minimal risk of direct military confrontation. The Dark Triad: China's three-pronged maritime strategy 1. Maritime Militia: Known as the People’s Armed Forces Maritime Militia (PAFMM), these ostensibly civilian vessels conduct aggressive operations, such as surveillance, enforcing blockades, and harassing foreign ships. 2. Dual-Use Research Vessels: While conducting scientific research, these ships gather extensive oceanographic data to support the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) and enhance maritime surveillance. 3. Coast Guard: The Chinese Coast Guard engages in overt acts of aggression and intimidation, as seen in the harassment of Philippine fishing boats at Scarborough Shoal. Impact on regional security China’s actions threaten the sovereignty and security of Southeast Asian nations, disrupting regional maritime security and international trade routes. The militarisation of disputed territories, coupled with aggressive grey zone tactics, escalates tensions and undermines regional stability. Responses from affected nations Southeast Asian countries have responded through diplomatic, legal, and military means. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia have condemned China’s actions, sought legal recourse through international mechanisms, and increased their military readiness. Joint exercises with allies and public information campaigns have also effectively countered Chinese aggression. International involvement and support External powers and like-minded nations such as the United States, Japan, and Australia (also members of QUAD) play a crucial role in balancing China’s ambitions. Their naval presence and joint maritime exercises enhance regional security and support Southeast Asian nations in defending their sovereignty. Strategies for countering China’s hegemony Enhancing maritime security cooperation among Southeast Asian nations is essential to counter China’s hegemonic ambitions. Joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and increased defence investments are necessary to build regional resilience. Public information campaigns highlighting Chinese aggression can garner international support and pressure Beijing to adhere to international norms. Rethinking the South China Sea in Indian Maritime Security Strategy India’s strategic and economic interests in the SCS are growing, driven by significant trade routes and joint hydrocarbon exploration projects. The Indian Navy has increased its presence in the region, reflecting India’s commitment to regional peace, stability, rules-based order, and freedom of navigation. Challenges: ● Intra-ASEAN Divisions: Diverse interests among ASEAN members complicate a unified stance against China. ● China’s Economic Influence: China’s significant economic footprint in the region hinders efforts to counter its dominance. Policy recommendations and future projections Given the complexities of the SCS, a multi-faceted approach is required. Policy Recommendations: 1. Strengthen Regional Alliances: Foster stronger ties with ASEAN nations through regional naval exercises, capacity building, intelligence sharing, and defence cooperation. 2. Enhance Maritime Domain Awareness: Invest in advanced maritime surveillance technologies and collaborate with international partners. 3. Increase Economic Engagement: Deepen economic ties with Southeast Asian nations through trade agreements and joint ventures. 4. Promote Rule of Law: Advocate for adherence to international maritime law and support legal actions challenging China's claims. Future Projections: ● Persistent Aggression: China’s aggressive posture in the SCS will likely continue, driven by strategic and economic interests. ● International Pressure: Regional and international pressure and strengthened alliances can mitigate risks and promote stability. ● Strategic Partnerships: Ongoing diplomatic efforts and strategic partnerships will be crucial in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. Upholding the rule of law A rules-based international order is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the SCS. Regional and international stakeholders must unite against China’s coercive tactics and uphold the principles of UNCLOS. Vigilance, solidarity, and persistent engagement are crucial to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. China’s brazen acts of aggression and grey zone tactics in the SCS involving its Navy, Coast Guard, Maritime Militia, and dual-use research vessels, pose significant threats to regional stability and international maritime law. By understanding and countering China’s grey zone warfare, the international community can uphold the sovereignty of nations and maintain a rules-based order in the maritime domain. The time to act is now, for the region’s peace, stability and the integrity of international law depend on our collective resolve and action. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

China’s hegemonic ambitions, brazen aggression in SCS: Threat to regional peace, stability, int'l order

<p>The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month.</p>

<p>Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands.</p>

<p>Military chief Cirilito Sobejana has claimed these structures are not very far from the islands claimed by the Philippines inside its exclusive economic zone.</p>

<p>While the structures can be seen in the area where Chinese vessels had massed last month, the Philippines has not yet named a country behind this act, as of now. The extent of construction of these structures is also not yet clear.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-philippines-discuss-chinese-militia-swarming-in-south-china-sea-374897"><strong>Watch |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-philippines-discuss-chinese-militia-swarming-in-south-china-sea-374897/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>These structures were discovered by the Philippines military’s maritime during one of their flight patrols over the South China Sea. The military has been regularly patrolling the area to monitor any and all activity by Chinese vessels, which are believed to be manned by their military.</p>

<p>“These constructions and other activities, economic or otherwise, are prejudicial to the peace, good order, and security of our territorial waters,” Lieutenant-General Sobejana said.</p>

<p>“Our efforts to dutifully perform our mandate to protect and advance our national interests in the area continue unhampered.”</p>

<p>Video footage shows hundreds of boats spread across Hughes, Gaven and Whitsun reefs. In some areas, boats are also moored in groups of two to seven.</p>


The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month. Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands.

The Philippines military has spotted illegal man-made structures in the South China Sea near the area where hundreds of Chinese vessels had gathered last month. Authorities have documented these structures as illegal and man-made, which are visible on Union Banks in the South China Sea’s Spratly Islands. Military chief Cirilito Sobejana has claimed these structures are not very far from the islands claimed by the Philippines inside its exclusive economic zone. While the structures can be seen in the area where Chinese vessels had massed last month, the Philippines has not yet named a country behind this act, as of now. The extent of construction of these structures is also not yet clear. Watch | These structures were discovered by the Philippines military’s maritime during one of their flight patrols over the South China Sea. The military has been regularly patrolling the area to monitor any and all activity by Chinese vessels, which are believed to be manned by their military. “These constructions and other activities, economic or otherwise, are prejudicial to the peace, good order, and security of our territorial waters,” Lieutenant-General Sobejana said. “Our efforts to dutifully perform our mandate to protect and advance our national interests in the area continue unhampered.” Video footage shows hundreds of boats spread across Hughes, Gaven and Whitsun reefs. In some areas, boats are also moored in groups of two to seven.

Philippines military finds more 'illegal' structures in South China Sea

Philippines Navy Chief Giovanni Carlo J. Bacordo has expressed gratitude to the Indian Navy for its "invaluable assistance" for helping out one of its navy ship after a fire broke out in engine room which injured two Philippines navy personnel.

Philippines Navy Chief expresses gratitude to Indian Navy Chief