China intimidates Philippine reconstruction on Thitu Island
The Philippines has been constructing a new beaching ramp on Thitu Island in the South China Sea, a move that has drawn firm resistance from its supposed new friend, China. The latter activated dozens of vessels, including those from the China Coast Guard and the People’s Liberation Army Navy, to intimidate Manila’s activities on the island.
On 4 February, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana revealed that the ramp would be finished in early 2019. It will allow construction materials and equipment to be delivered to this largest of the Philippines’ nine features in the Spratly Islands.
One urgent need is to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from China Rising: Special Report
-
![Chinese shipbuilder launches ‘combat-ready’ JARI USV]()
Chinese shipbuilder launches ‘combat-ready’ JARI USV
The No. 716 Research Institute of the China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) launched a long-awaited USV on 21 August, according to an announcement on the …
-
![Is the ‘Red Dragon’ fearsome or friendly?]()
Is the ‘Red Dragon’ fearsome or friendly?
If Beijing’s leaders and its numerous mouthpieces are to be believed, China is a friendly and cuddly panda intent on holding the world together. Then …
-
![Asian nations boost spy satellite capacities]()
Asian nations boost spy satellite capacities
Asian countries continue to enhance their satellite constellations, with China, India and South Korea all making recent announcements in the space realm. China, for instance, …
-
![Analysis: China seeks to dominate the seas]()
Analysis: China seeks to dominate the seas
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) focus as stated by China’s latest Defence White Paper is to build a strong and modernised naval force …
-
![Analysis: China's PLA moves towards expeditionary operations]()
Analysis: China's PLA moves towards expeditionary operations
In possession of the second largest defence budget in the world, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is in the midst of reforming its personnel, …
-
Analysis: China's air force sees shift in strategic mission
China’s shifting focus from traditional security concerns to global power competition has brought along changes in People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s (PLAAF) strategic mission.
