The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has escalated combat readiness operations around Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea, according to an official statement released Wednesday. Naval and air forces under the PLA Southern Theater Command have conducted reinforced patrols since September to strengthen control over the area and address potential security challenges.
Military officials emphasized the maneuvers aim to safeguard national sovereignty while maintaining regional stability. The increased vigilance comes amid what China describes as 'unlawful infringements' in waters it claims as territorial under international law. Analysts suggest the move underscores Beijing's commitment to asserting its maritime claims through measured military presence.
Huangyan Dao, known internationally as Scarborough Shoal, remains a strategic focal point in the South China Sea. The PLA's statement reiterated China's position that such patrols contribute to 'peaceful development' while deterring external provocations. Regional observers will monitor how these developments impact navigation patterns and diplomatic relations among South China Sea claimant states.
