New Delhi: China has projected its power further over South-China Sea by quietly installing anti-cruise-missiles and surface-to-air missiles on the hotly disputed waters.
China has also recently installed military jamming equipment in the sea that eerily is capable of disrupting all communications and radar systems, which can hinder US military operations.
The anti-cruise ships and surface-to-air missiles have been moved to Fiery Cross Reef, Subi Reef and Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands, within last 30 days.
China has quietly installed anti-ship cruise missiles and surface-to-air missile systems on three of its fortified outposts west of the Philippines in the South China Sea, a move that allows Beijing to further project its power in the hotly disputed waters, reported by CNBC.
Dispute over South-China Sea
South-China Sea harbours 11 billion barrel of untapped oil and 190 cubic feet of natural gas. Also $3.4 trillion trade passes annually through these 200 specks of land serves acting as gateways to sea routes.
China took autonomy over Fiery Red cross and Subi Sea in 1988. It has managed to outfit deep-water ports, aircraft hangars, communication facilities, administration offices and a 10,000-foot runway there.
China is claiming the sea by physically increasing the size of islands land or by artificially making them.
It has not only made US worry, but also agonised Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
“The only thing lacking are the deployed forces. Once occupied, China will be able to extend its influence thousands of miles to the south and project power deep into Oceania,” Davidson wrote. “In short, China is now capable of controlling the South China Sea in all scenarios short of war with the United States.”, wrote U.S. Navy Adm. Philip Davidson to the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee.