#South China Sea

China begins operating a new dry dock at Yulin Naval Base in Hainan, potentially eliminating aircraft carrier gaps in the South China Sea and enabling greater power projection into the Indian Ocean.

China's H-6J maritime strike bomber receives new reconnaissance pods, enhancing its ability to track and target naval vessels in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

The PLA confirmed a drone flight near Taiwan-controlled Pratas Island on January 17, 2026, amid soaring cross-strait tensions and military pressure.

With the 2026 US-Venezuela military action shaking the global order, China is positioning itself as a more 'responsible' power. Can Beijing seize this diplomatic opening?

The Philippines and Japan signed the ACSA security agreement on Jan 15, 2026, facilitating military logistical support and $15.9M in aid amid South China Sea tensions.

Japan and the Philippines signed two major defense pacts on Jan 15, 2026, including the ACSA and a $6M OSA package, to strengthen military ties against China's regional assertiveness.

On Jan 15, 2026, the Philippines and Japan signed a new security agreement for tax-free military supplies, strengthening their alliance amid rising South China Sea tensions.

China's Sansha government is hiring 11 community workers for the Paracel and Spratly islands, including Mischief Reef. A look into the shift toward civilian administration.

As 2026 begins, Southeast Asian nations like the Philippines and Indonesia are accelerating a $35 billion military modernization. Explore how South Korea and Europe are leading the arms race in a shifting Asia-Pacific landscape.

Examine the 2026 tensions following Trump's massive arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing's fierce opposition and the historical context of the one-China principle are discussed.

China launches a daily fresh food supply flight to Woody Island, bolstering its civilian infrastructure and presence in the contested South China Sea.

Murphy Oil's Hai Su Vang discovery in Vietnam is set to be the largest ASEAN oil find in 20 years. Explore the impacts on regional energy and markets.