China's 'Monster' Coast Guard Vessel Anchors in Philippine Waters, Escalating South China Sea Tensions

 In a move considered "intimidation" by Philippine officials, China has anchored its enormous coast guard vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), heightening tensions in the South China Sea. On July 3, the China Coast Guard vessel CCG-5901 anchored near Sabina Shoal in the Spratly Islands, about 130 kilometers northwest of the Philippine island of Palawan. This vessel remained in place as of July 6.

The Philippine Coast Guard quickly warned the Chinese vessel and questioned its intentions. Jay Tarriela, the spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, emphasized that the Philippines would not back down from its territorial claims in the South China Sea. “It’s an intimidation on the part of the China Coast Guard,” Tarriela stated. “We’re not going to pull out, and we’re not going to be intimidated.”

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a regular press briefing, denied the Philippines' claim that the area was within its EEZ. Spokesperson Lin Jian stated, “China’s military and police ships patrolling and enforcing the law in the waters near Xianbin Jiao comply with China’s domestic law and international law,” using the Chinese name for the Sabina Shoal.

China asserts "indisputable sovereignty" over almost the entire South China Sea, leading to overlapping claims with several countries, including the Philippines. Despite a 2016 ruling by an international tribunal in The Hague favoring the Philippines and rejecting China's broad claims, Beijing continues to enforce its territorial ambitions through its coast guard and militia boats.

Over the past year, China Coast Guard ships, often supported by militia boats, have been involved in numerous incidents, resulting in damage to Philippine vessels and injuries to Filipino sailors. The CCG-5901, with its significant size and firepower, frequently leads China's efforts to assert control. Last year, this vessel was deployed near Vanguard Bank, a contentious area between Vietnam and China, highlighting its role in regional power dynamics.

China's coast guard vessels, dubbed "The Monster," are the largest of their kind globally. At 541 feet in length and displacing 12,000 tons, these vessels dwarf most other coast guard ships, including those of the United States. Their impressive size and capabilities make them pivotal in China's strategy of intimidation and control over disputed waters.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua, the largest and most advanced vessel in the Philippine Coast Guard, has been stationed at Sabina Shoal since April to counter the presence of Chinese maritime militias. Measuring 97 meters, it is considerably smaller than the Chinese CCG-5901 but remains a crucial asset for the Philippines. Despite its size, the Teresa Magbanua will continue to patrol and ensure the security of Philippine waters.

Philippine Coast Guard officials have stated that while the Teresa Magbanua is vital to their operations, it is not meant to be a permanent outpost but rather a patrol vessel safeguarding Philippine sovereignty. This stance reflects the broader regional tensions and the ongoing struggle for control and influence in the South China Sea.

US Marines Successfully Conduct First Overseas Ship-to-Shore Operations with New Amphibious Combat Vehicles in Okinawa

 

On June 24, 2024, the US Marine Corps conducted its first overseas ship-to-shore operations with the new Amphibious Combat Vehicles (ACVs) at the White Beach Naval Facility in Okinawa, Japan. This event also marked the debut of the ACVs for the Marines stationed in Okinawa. The Marines and sailors from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) reached White Beach, partly traveling on the newly deployed ACVs.

The 15th MEU embarked on the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) and arrived at White Beach on June 18 for a port visit and essential sustainment training. During the operation, personnel boarded the ACVs, which emerged from the well deck of the Harpers Ferry. Boats from the 3rd Expeditionary Operations Training Group then transferred personnel to a pier, simulating safety egress procedures.

After the personnel transfer, the ACV Platoon navigated through the boat basin to come ashore at White Beach for maintenance.

Lt. Col. Nick Freeman, commanding officer of BLT 1/5, 15th MEU, noted that while the training was standard, it was significant as the first overseas ship-to-shore deployment of ACVs. He highlighted the ongoing training at various locations to refine the use of ACVs in their intended environments.

Prior to the ship-to-shore movement, the Marines showcased the ACVs on the Harpers Ferry to other Marine units and members of the Japan Self-Defense Force. Rear Adm. Chris Stone, commander of Task Force 76 and Expeditionary Strike Group 7, praised the ACVs as a "force multiplier" that enhances operational flexibility and response capabilities in maritime environments.

The ACVs' first operational deployment occurred in May during the Balikatan exercise in the Philippines, where they were used in live-fire exercises. The ACV platoon launched from the USS Harpers Ferry, organized into assault sections, and engaged shore-based targets using their Remote Weapons Systems with Mark 19 40 mm grenade machine guns.

The US Marine Corps is transitioning to the ACV to replace the older amphibious assault vehicles, following a tragic accident in 2020 that resulted in the deaths of eight Marines and a Navy corpsman. Developed by BAE Systems, the ACV has faced challenges, including rollovers during training exercises, which led to operational restrictions.

The Marine Corps has identified inadequate training on the ACV’s operational differences from its predecessor as a cause of these incidents. The ACV features wheels instead of tracks, a flatter hull, and a smaller size. Concerns have been raised about the ACV's wheeled design not providing a speed advantage over the older tracked vehicles in water. The Marine Corps aims to address this with a "Phase 2" ACV that may meet performance requirements.

Despite these challenges, the eight-wheeled ACV significantly enhances the Marine Corps' capability to transport troops to shore, navigating through surf during assaults and landings. This deployment marks a critical step in modernizing the Marine Corps' capabilities in the Pacific theater, a strategic focus as they prepare for potential large-scale conflicts where amphibious operations will be crucial.

Philippines Seeks Urgent Talks with China Amid South China Sea Tensions Over Sierra Madre Outpost

The Philippines is urgently seeking to schedule a call with China to address rising tensions in the South China Sea, according to the country's ambassador to the US. The conflict centers around the Sierra Madre, a decaying World War II-era ship grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal, which the Philippines uses as an outpost and resupplies monthly.

Despite a 2016 UN ruling against China's territorial claims, China asserts the area as its own and has increasingly harassed Filipino supply ships. This harassment escalated on June 17 when Chinese sailors boarded Filipino vessels, damaging equipment and injuring eight personnel. One Filipino lost his thumb, leading to a hospital visit from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who recently stated that a Filipino death in such confrontations would be considered "very close" to an act of war.

Such a scenario could invoke the mutual defense treaty with the US, potentially involving America in the conflict. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin affirmed America's strong commitment to the treaty but did not provide further comments.

Philippines Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, speaking to reporters in Washington, noted that efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions, including scheduling a call with Chinese counterparts by early July. He emphasized the need for a frank discussion with China to reduce tensions.

Romualdez also confirmed that the Philippines has reinforced the Sierra Madre to improve conditions for stationed soldiers, despite China's objections. He reiterated that the Philippines has no plans to abandon the outpost.

On Wednesday, Austin reaffirmed America's support for the Philippines in a call with his Manila counterpart. The US and the Philippines have strengthened their security relationship over the past year, with the US gaining access to four new military sites in northern Philippines and expanding the "Balikatan" military exercise. The US also deployed a mid-range missile system to the Philippines for the first time in April.

Despite Beijing's objections, the Philippines maintains that the new security agreement is defensive. In April, the US approved a substantial security funding package, including $4 billion for the Indo-Pacific, with a significant portion likely headed to Taiwan and potentially the Philippines.

Ambassador Romualdez emphasized the need for decisive action from all parties involved to address the situation. 

US and Canadian Navies Conduct Bilateral Operations in South China Sea Amidst Tensions with China

 From June 18 to June 20, the United States Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy executed bilateral operations in the South China Sea, emphasizing their strong dedication to regional security and collaboration amid ongoing tensions between China and the Philippines.

The operations included the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) and the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigate HMCS Montreal (FFH 336). These activities encompassed personnel transfers, flight operations, and replenishment at sea, supported by the Lewis-and-Clark class dry cargo ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8).

"Close coordination with our allies and partners is paramount to success in the region," stated Capt. Justin Harts, Commander of Destroyer Squadron 15. "Demonstrating regional cooperation with the Royal Canadian Navy is key to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Cmdr. Isaia Infante, commanding officer of the USS Ralph Johnson, underscored the importance of joint exercises, highlighting the opportunity to work closely with allies and partners and reinforce the already strong relationship with the Royal Canadian Navy. He affirmed the crew's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific while supporting the rules-based international order.

The US Navy noted that such bilateral engagements are vital for training, exercising, and developing tactical interoperability across allied navies, enhancing collective readiness to address regional contingencies.

This operation followed a historic joint patrol involving Canada, Japan, and the US with the Philippines in the South China Sea, part of a multilateral maritime cooperation activity (MMCA) aimed at preserving freedom of navigation and overflight. Canada's increasing involvement in the region comes amid reports of aggressive maneuvers by Chinese ships targeting routine resupply missions to a vessel grounded by Manila on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippines has accused China of violating its sovereignty, citing the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Canada's recent joint drill with the US Navy could further strain its already fragile relations with China. Since 2018, Canada has intermittently deployed military ships, aircraft, and personnel to conduct surveillance operations to identify suspected maritime sanctions violations, particularly ship-to-ship transfer of fuel and other commodities banned by UN Security Council resolutions.

In June 2022, Canada accused Chinese fighter pilots of dangerously intercepting a Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 maritime patrol aircraft since December 2021. Reports indicated that Chinese jets intercepted the Canadian aircraft about 60 times, with nearly 20 encounters deemed 'dangerous.' This incident sparked a diplomatic dispute between the two nations. China has consistently criticized Canada for its participation in overflights and freedom of navigation operations alongside the United States, accusing Canadian military aircraft of conducting provocative reconnaissance activities under the guise of implementing UN Security Council resolutions. China argued these activities were unauthorized and increased the risk of mishaps or conflict.

Relations deteriorated further in 2023 when Canada accused China of election interference, leading to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that China attempted to influence the 2019 and 2021 elections, though these efforts were unsuccessful. In military assessments, China and Russia were identified as Canada’s primary adversaries, highlighting the need for a robust response to hostile actions.

Philippines Establishes First BrahMos Missile Base to Bolster South China Sea Defense

 

The Philippines has begun constructing its first BrahMos anti-ship missile base, strategically positioned at a naval installation facing the South China Sea. This development follows the country’s 2022 order of Indian supersonic cruise missiles, a key component of its defense modernization program aimed at updating its military capabilities amidst regional tensions with China. This $375 million deal under the Philippine Navy’s Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Acquisition Project includes three BrahMos missile batteries and technical support, marking the first international sale of this missile system and sparking interest from other nations like Vietnam and Indonesia.

Satellite images have revealed the construction of the BrahMos site at Philippine Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales, Western Luzon. The images show new infrastructure being built on land previously used for amphibious assault and coastal defense training, with only a shed for amphibious vehicles existing before the construction began in August 2022. By May 2024, the site features buildings similar to those at Indian BrahMos bases, including a high-bay facility for missile maintenance and testing, and a magazine bunker for storage. The Philippine base is smaller, reflecting the reduced capacity of the BrahMos systems ordered by Manila, which have two missiles per launcher compared to three on Indian launchers.

Construction continues on additional structures likely intended to house the missile launchers and other command and control facilities. While missile deliveries began in April, it’s unclear if the transporter-erector-launchers have arrived. The mobile BrahMos system allows for flexible deployment, enabling batteries to relocate and avoid enemy counterstrikes while striking targets up to 300 kilometers away, including the disputed Scarborough Shoal occupied by China.

Another potential BrahMos deployment site is Camp Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, home to the Philippine Marine Corps 4th Marine Brigade. Development plans here show structures similar to those at the Zambales base, suggesting future coastal defense deployments that would cover the Luzon Strait. The Coastal Defense Regiment, operating the BrahMos, has also received land donations in Lubang and Calayan, both strategic locations for coastal defense.

Former Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana emphasized BrahMos’ deterrent capabilities in defending Philippine sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Army is also considering procuring BrahMos and HIMARS systems in the next phase of military modernization, aiming to deploy more missile batteries for coastal defense. To support this high-end system, the Philippines has collaborated with the U.S. for training in modern systems and tactics, practicing combined networks to identify and strike maritime targets effectively.

US Navy and Taiwan Conduct Unplanned Military Exercises in West Pacific Amid Rising Tensions with China

 

In an unannounced move showcasing growing maritime cooperation, the U.S. and Taiwan conducted impromptu military exercises in the West Pacific. This development comes amid rising tensions between Taiwan and China, ahead of the inauguration of Taiwan's president-elect, Lai Ching-te. According to unnamed sources cited by Reuters, the drills took place during routine naval encounters.

One source mentioned the involvement of “multiple military assets,” while another highlighted that these exercises were unofficially termed “unplanned sea encounters,” implying a tacit agreement that these drills were coincidental rather than premeditated.

These exercises occurred between a series of scheduled high-profile drills. In mid-April, the U.S. conducted a trilateral exercise with Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) vessels, focusing on interoperability and warfighting capabilities. Shortly after, the Balikatan 24 exercise in the Philippines involved the U.S., Philippine, Australian, and French forces, concentrating on counter-landing operations and maritime domain awareness.

During the unplanned U.S.-Taiwan drills, around six ships, including supply vessels and frigates, engaged in basic communications, resupply operations, and joint anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercises. These drills are critical for ensuring operational compatibility between the two navies in emergencies, involving tactical maneuvers and underwater target searches.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense spokesperson, Major General Sun Li-fang, stated that the exercises adhered to the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES), which manages interactions between different militaries at sea. This protocol was previously utilized in 2016 during an encounter between the USS Chafee and three ROCN ships.

The disclosure of these exercises follows Taiwanese Chief of General Staff Admiral Mei Chia-shu’s visit to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) change of command ceremony in Hawaii in early May. Shortly after, China conducted significant military exercises around Taiwan, labeled “Joint Sword-2024A,” which involved near-encirclement maneuvers similar to those after Nancy Pelosi's visit in 2022.

In late May, the U.S. began Tiger Strike 2024 with Malaysia, focusing on amphibious warfare and multi-domain awareness. Early June saw the announcement of the “Freedom Edge” exercise, a first-time trilateral drill involving the U.S., Japan, and South Korea.

These high-profile activities in the West Pacific lead up to the Rim of the Pacific 2024 (RIMPAC 24) exercises, scheduled from June 28 to August 2, involving 29 nations, 40 surface ships, 3 submarines, 14 national land forces, over 150 aircraft, and more than 25,000 personnel. The Italian carrier Cavour and a French Navy FREMM air defense frigate will also participate.

Italian Navy Deploys Carrier Strike Group for Five-Month Indo-Pacific Mission

 

The Italian Navy's Carrier Strike Group, led by the Cavour (CVH 550) STOVL aircraft carrier and accompanied by the Alpino (F 594) Bergamini-class frigate, embarked on a five-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region on June 1st. This mission was confirmed by Italian Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Enrico Credendino at the Conference Navale de Paris in January, though the Ministry of Defense has not released detailed information.

During this deployment, the Carrier Strike Group will visit around ten countries and ports, traveling through the Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Gulf of Aden to reach the Pacific. The group will operate in the Indo-Pacific for approximately two months before returning to Italy, making stops in Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East.

Admiral Credendino emphasized that the Cavour Carrier Strike Group is a versatile tool for projecting power globally, maintaining sea control, and ensuring open sea lines of communication. The deployment will achieve initial operating capability (IOC) for the Italian Navy’s fifth-generation aircraft, enhancing interoperability with allies.

The Cavour carries an air group including Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning IIs, Boeing AV-8B Harrier II Plus aircraft, and NH90 helicopters, totaling more than a dozen assets, with expectations of increased numbers during the mission. The Alpino frigate provides anti-submarine warfare capabilities, and the group will expand with NATO, EU, and allied naval assets, including Spanish and French frigates.

The Italian Carrier Strike Group will engage in naval diplomacy, promote Italian industry, and collaborate with NATO and local navies. Highlights include the biennial Pitch Black exercise in Australia, interactions with the US Armed Forces in the Central Pacific, and engagements with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The group will visit the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, India, Oman, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia before returning to Italy in early November.

This mission is crucial for evaluating and qualifying the capabilities of the fifth-generation F-35Bs, aiming to reach IOC by the end of 2024, which is significant for both the Italian Navy and NATO.

China Warns Taiwan Independence Supporters of 'Self-Destruction' at Shangri-La Dialogue

 

After meeting U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, China’s new defense minister, Adm. Dong Jun, appeared amicable, even sharing tips on the best places to see pandas in China. However, his tone shifted dramatically two days later during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a prominent defense summit.

In a stern speech, Dong warned that those supporting Taiwan's independence would face "self-destruction" and stated that the likelihood of "peaceful reunification" with Taiwan was diminishing. His speech reflected China's dual strategy at the summit: reassuring other nations of its responsible behavior while firmly asserting its stance on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Rory Medcalf, head of the National Security College at Australian National University, described Dong's address as the "most consistently intimidating speech" from China at the summit. A U.S. official echoed this sentiment, calling the speech "tone deaf" and highlighting global concerns about China's coercive activities in the region.

China's recent actions include military activities around the Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, where Chinese Coast Guard vessels have harassed Philippine resupply missions. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned that any Filipino deaths resulting from such actions would be considered an act of war, potentially drawing the U.S. into the conflict due to its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines.

During the conference, other leaders also criticized China. U.S. Defense Secretary Austin reiterated that conflict is neither "imminent nor unavoidable," while Australia's Defense Minister Richard Marles emphasized that China's growing power would attract greater scrutiny.

Despite resuming military talks with the U.S. after a two-year hiatus, China's actions around Taiwan remain aggressive. Dong cited "external interfering forces," referring to the U.S. and its allies, for escalating tensions in the region. During a Q&A session, Dong defended China's actions, claiming those seeking Taiwanese independence were testing China's "red lines."

Dong's speech concluded with a mix of defiance and humor, highlighting the charged atmosphere at the Shangri-La Dialogue.