In 2023, the United States escalated its military maneuvers near the South China Sea, deploying aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, and bombers, conducting close-in reconnaissance operations, and engaging in joint exercises, according to a recent report from a think tank.
Despite offering support to the Philippines amidst tensions with China in the region, the US is reluctant to engage in direct military confrontation with China, aiming to avoid exploitation by the Philippines, as per the report released by the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative (SCSPI) at a press briefing in Beijing.
Throughout the year, the US military bolstered its deterrence efforts against China, with a notable increase in activities such as close-in reconnaissance operations, transits through the Taiwan Straits, and participation in bilateral or multilateral exercises, the SCSPI stated, citing open-source intelligence.
Approximately 1,000 sorties by US large reconnaissance aircraft were conducted, frequently encroaching upon Chinese mainland airspace. Moreover, US carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups entered the South China Sea on eight occasions, demonstrating heightened intensity and duration in training exercises.
The report highlighted the presence of 11 nuclear-powered attack submarines and two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines in or near the South China Sea, indicating a clear intent of deterrence.
US warships conducted six “freedom of navigation operations” in waters off Chinese islands and reefs, alongside six transits through the Taiwan Straits.
Additionally, the US engaged in joint operations with allies and partners and utilized unmanned systems, notably the MQ-4C reconnaissance drone, in the region.
The SCSPI underscored that the significant escalation of US military activities in another country’s surrounding waters during peacetime contradicts the principles of international law and poses risks of maritime and aerial frictions and conflicts between the two nations.
Looking ahead to 2024, the think tank predicted a continued increase in US military presence and activities in the South China Sea and its environs, driven by geopolitical dynamics and uncertainties stemming from global conflicts.
Notably, the report emphasized the US’ cautious approach in directly intervening in disputes between China and the Philippines, despite providing diplomatic and intelligence support. The US aims to leverage the Philippines strategically to advance its Indo-Pacific strategy while avoiding direct military confrontation with China.
Chinese military experts emphasized the need for the Philippines to discern the US’ strategic objectives and cautioned against becoming a pawn in geopolitical maneuvers, underscoring China’s capability to safeguard its sovereignty and security.