Monthly Archives: October 2017

Despite Common Threat in Beijing, Other South China Sea Rivals Still Spar Among Selves

TAIPEI, TAIWAN — Four Southeast Asian countries and Taiwan, all of which lay claims to the contested, resource-rich South China Sea, are still grappling with incidents among themselves despite a focus on their common rival, China. The suspected shooting deaths late last month of two Vietnamese fishermen in waters 34 nautical miles from the Philippines […]

Duterte Reaches out to U.S. Amid South China Sea Harassment

As reports that Chinese vessels are increasing in number near Pag-asa (Thitu) Island in the South China Sea, Philippines’ President Rodrigo Duterte has hinted at a possible reconciliation with the U.S. Duterte made a surprise announcement that he wanted to be “friendly” with the U.S., a view which contrasts to earlier statements. On several previous […]

South China Sea: Philippines Plans Spratly Upgrades

The Philippines Armed Forces will upgrade the airstrip on Thitu Island, among other improvement. The Philippines will begin important upgrades to its primary outpost in the disputed Spratly group in the South China Sea. According to Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Modernization Program will finance the paving of the […]

US carrier navigates crowded South China Sea waters as North Korea tensions mount

While maintaining operational readiness amid protracted tensions over North Korea, US navy is also keeping an eye on China. ABOARD THE USS RONALD REAGAN, SOUTH CHINA SEA: As the commanders of the largest US warship in Asia seek to maintain operational readiness amid protracted tensions over North Korea, they find themselves keeping one eye on […]

US carrier navigates crowded South China Sea waters as North Korea tensions mount

While maintaining operational readiness amid protracted tensions over North Korea, US navy is also keeping an eye on China. F-18 Super Hornet jet fighters were took-off USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier during routine drills deep in the South China Sea. ABOARD THE USS RONALD REAGAN, SOUTH CHINA SEA: As the commanders of the largest US […]