Over 60 Chinese Vessels Encircle Disputed Philippine Island, Satellite Images Reveal
Satellite images have revealed about 60 Chinese vessels crowding near Thitu Island, a key territory controlled by the Philippines in the South China Sea.
The photos taken by Maxar Technologies and reviewed by Reuters show some ships two nautical miles from the island.
Thitu Island, locally called Pag-Asa, is the Philippines’ most important outpost in the region, and it is used to monitor Chinese activities in these busy waters.
The head of the Philippines’ Western Command, Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres, tried to calm concerns, saying it’s normal for Chinese maritime militia ships to gather in the area. “It’s not a cause for concern,” he said.
Rear Admiral Roy Trinidad, a spokesperson for the Philippine Navy, describes the ships’ presence as “illegal” but adds that there’s no reason to panic.
“We don’t have to react to everything they do. What matters is we stay firm in our position,” he explained.
These so-called fishing vessels, many registered in China, are believed to work closely with the Chinese coast guard and navy.
However, China has never officially acknowledged the existence of a maritime militia, and its defense ministry has not commented on the recent buildup.
Chinese and Philippine vessels have been involved in months of clashes, especially around Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal. Thitu Island sits near Subi Reef, where China has built a naval base and runway.
Security experts believe the gathering might be a move by China to test the Philippines’ reaction, especially given the current political tension in Manila.
Collin Koh, a security analyst based in Singapore, says that China could be trying to delay construction on Thitu Island. The Philippines is reportedly building an aircraft hangar there, which is expected to be finished soon. “This situation needs to be watched closely,” Koh warned.
Reference: Reuters
Marine Insight Academy
Online courses for the Maritime industry!
Enroll For Maritime Courses
- 100 + Free & Premium Courses
- Learn at your own speed
- Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
- Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
- Interactive videos
Marine Insight Academy
Enroll For Maritime Courses
- 100 + Free & Premium Courses
- Learn at your own speed
- Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
- Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
- Interactive videos
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
Related Articles
- Passenger Ship Capsizes Off East Java Coast, Leaving 1 Dead & Another Missing
- U.S. Naval Academy Can Continue Considering Race In Admission Process: Court Decides
- Yantian Port Launches World’s First On-Dock Battery-Swapping Station For Electric Trucks
- Ship Carrying Essential Military Supplies For Poland Runs Aground Off Norway
Related Articles
Daily Maritime News, Straight To Your Inbox
Sign Up To Get Daily Newsletters
Join over 60k+ people who read our daily newsletters
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT