Grab what you can while you can: The new reality in the South China Sea
Summary
China has rapidly expanded a small reef called Antelope Reef in the South China Sea by dredging sand to create new land and buildings. Vietnam and other countries with claims in the area are also increasing their land-building efforts, leading to a competition over control of disputed islands and reefs.Key Facts
- Antelope Reef, once mostly underwater, was expanded into a 6 sq km landmass in six months by China.
- China uses large dredging ships capable of moving huge amounts of sand quickly to build these artificial islands.
- The South China Sea has many disputed islands claimed by China, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei.
- China controls the Paracel Islands since 1974 after a battle with South Vietnam.
- China has built military bases and airstrips on several reefs in the Spratly Islands.
- Vietnam has increased land reclamation on at least 20 reefs, creating 11 new harbours to counter China's presence.
- Tensions remain as both countries build infrastructure on disputed areas despite some diplomatic efforts.
- The South China Sea is strategically important, and these developments affect regional security and territorial claims.
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