Summary
The Philippine Coast Guard says Chinese forces are disrupting their Starlink satellite internet in the South China Sea. This disruption is happening near Scarborough Shoal, a contested area both the Philippines and China claim. The interference disrupts communication for Philippine fishing boats and government vessels.
Key Facts
- The Philippine Coast Guard accused China of jamming Starlink systems near Scarborough Shoal.
- China and the Philippines have a long-standing dispute over the South China Sea.
- The area is important because it has many resources and sees a lot of global shipping traffic.
- An international tribunal ruled against China's claim in 2016, but China still asserts control.
- Philippine vessels lost internet connection within roughly 24 nautical miles of the shoal.
- Starlink provides internet connections via satellites launched by SpaceX.
- China blocks licenses for SpaceX to operate within its territory due to security concerns.
- Tensions are high in the region, leading the Philippines to boost defense collaboration with the U.S. and regional partners.
