US Navy Patrols Disputed South China Sea as Tensions Rise

A photo captured on August 22, 2023, shows a US Navy P-8 Poseidon patrol and reconnaissance plane circling past a Chinese coast guard ship. This occurred during a resupply mission by a civilian boat chartered by the Philippine navy to deliver supplies to the Philippine navy ship BRP Sierra Madre in the disputed South China Sea.

The image serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in the region. China claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, a claim contested by several other countries, including the Philippines. The presence of the US Navy aircraft suggests American involvement in the dispute and its commitment to supporting its allies.

US Coast Guard Commander Discusses Maritime Security in the Pacific

In a call with regional reporters while visiting Japan, Vice Admiral Andrew J. Tiongson, US Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander, addressed maritime security concerns in the region. He highlighted the shared maritime boundary between the US and Russia in the Bering Strait and the increased presence of both Chinese and Russian naval vessels in the area.

Tiongson noted that the US Coast Guard has observed an uptick in joint operations between the Chinese and Russian navies in the region over the past couple of years. He also mentioned occasional incursions by these vessels into the US Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The US Coast Guard's response involves establishing a presence in the region and maintaining communication with the intruding vessels. Tiongson emphasized that encounters with Russian and Chinese ships have been professional to date.

US Coast Guard Offers Support to the Philippines in South China Sea Dispute

Tiongson also addressed the ongoing standoff between the Philippines and China around Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. He confirmed that the US Coast Guard has not been requested to provide escort to Philippine vessels but has been offering advice and assistance.

This support includes helping the Philippine Coast Guard develop plans for dealing with the situation. However, Tiongson clarified that the US Coast Guard will not be directly involved in accompanying Philippine vessels.