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Tensions Rise in South China Sea Following Collision and US Warship Deployment
The South China Sea saw increased tensions this week following a collision between two Chinese ships and the subsequent deployment of two US warships to the disputed waters. The incident began when two Chinese vessels, a navy destroyer and a coast guard ship, collided while attempting to intercept a Philippine coast guard ship near Scarborough Shoal. The shoal, along with other outcroppings in the South China Sea, is claimed by both China and the Philippines, with Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan also asserting overlapping claims.
The US responded by deploying the guided missile destroyer USS Higgins and the littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati to the area. The ships sailed within 30 nautical miles of Scarborough Shoal, shadowed by a Chinese navy vessel. While no incidents were reported during the US deployment, it underscores the long-standing tensions in the region and raises questions about the extent of US involvement.
The US Navy has conducted “freedom-of-navigation” operations in the South China Sea for years, challenging China’s claims and restrictions in the area. These operations have frequently led to close encounters between US and Chinese vessels.
The recent collision, captured on video by the Philippine Coast Guard, shows a Chinese coast guard vessel tailing and using a water cannon against the Philippine ship before a Chinese navy warship cuts in front of it, resulting in a collision. The incident damaged both Chinese vessels. China blamed the Philippines for the incident, claiming the Philippine vessel intruded into Chinese waters.
Following the collision, several countries, including Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, expressed concern over the dangerous maneuvers of the Chinese ships. Philippine Commodore Jay Tarriela called the incident a “learning experience” for China, urging them to adhere to international maritime regulations.
Adding to the tension, a Chinese fighter jet reportedly flew dangerously close to a Philippine coast guard surveillance plane carrying journalists near Scarborough Shoal just hours after the ship collision.
The US is currently in discussions with the Philippines about potentially deploying more missile launchers to the country to strengthen deterrence in the region, although no final decision has been made. The Philippines is a long-time US treaty ally, and the US has affirmed its commitment to defend the Philippines in the event of an armed attack, including in the South China Sea.