China launches air, sea patrols near flashpoint Scarborough Shoal

China has long pursued its states in the South China Sea through the seacoast guard.

And while the Chinese military has previously been stationed close to the Scarborough Shoal, an analyst reported to AFP that the action showed that they are “becoming more violent and forceful” on Wednesday.

” It’s meant to intimidate”, Jay Batongbacal, chairman of the Manila-based Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said.

” It’s definitely meant to send a message, a show of force”, he added.

“AGGRAVATE Hostilities”

In recent months, Chinese and Asian vessels have engaged in an increasing number of verbal exchanges in the South China Sea, including one that has involved a ship that has been a military tyre’s been grounded for centuries by Manila on the disputous Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

One of the most concerning incidents occurred in June when Foreign sailors boarded Philippine naval vessels close to the corporate reef with knives and an hammer.

One of the Philippine’s sailors, according to the Spanish military, lost a thumb during the altercation, during which Beijing’s coast guard even seizes or destroys Philippine weapons, including guns.

Beijing maintains that its steps to defend its claims are fair and proportionate and blames Manila for the increase.