China builds new aircraft carrier in show of strength to Washington:
China intends to beef up its maritime presence by building a second aircraft carrier. Beijing wants to exert its presence in the South China Sea, after complaining of "Provocations" from the US, as well as defending its interests in the region. Ref. Source 9e
China to Hold Military Exercises in South China Sea, Raising Tensions:
The drills, announced in a brief online statement Sunday, are scheduled to stretch over seven days starting Tuesday and ending July 11, the day before the United Nations-backed tribunal in The Hague is expected to issue its ruling. Ref. Source 1i.
US Defense official: Chinese warship captures US underwater drone:
A US oceanographic vessel Thursday had its underwater drone stolen by a Chinese warship literally right in front of the eyes of the American crew, a US defense official told CNN Friday. Ref. Source 6r.
The Chinese expansion into the South Sea is worrying not because they are there already but I think its just the beginning. Its a more subtle approach to what the Russians did in Crimea but equally as deadly.
International Level: Specialist / Political Participation: 41 4.1%