China’s New Base on Antelope Reef
CONTEXT
- Satellite imagery has indicated that China is developing a full scale runway and offshore military base on Antelope Reef, located in the disputed Paracel Islands.
- The development is expected to enhance China’s naval and air reach in the South China Sea.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Paracel Islands are claimed by China, Vietnam and Taiwan and are already subject to extensive militarisation.
- A combination of runway, wharf and logistics infrastructure could facilitate surveillance, deployment of combat aircraft and naval operations.
- The proposed facility could strengthen China’s ability to maintain and support military forces near important sea lanes and approaches towards Taiwan.
- Artificial island construction and militarisation can alter the strategic situation on the ground, but such developments do not by themselves settle questions of sovereignty under international law.
- The development could increase the risks of coercion, accidental encounters and military escalation involving regional countries and the United States.
KEY CONCEPTS
- UNCLOS: The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea establishes the legal framework governing maritime zones and activities, but it does not itself determine sovereignty over land territory.
- Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD): Military capabilities designed to prevent an adversary from entering a particular region or make such access significantly more difficult and costly.
WAY FORWARD
- India should closely monitor developments in the South China Sea while strengthening maritime domain awareness and strategic partnerships.
- India should continue to support freedom of navigation, peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to international law.