CHINA-MILITARY: SOUTH CHINA SEA
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Reputed Chinese scholar Jin Canrong, Professor of International Relations at Renmin University and Colonel Li Jie, an expert at the Chinese Naval Research Institute, disclosed that China plans to expand its biggest installation on the disputed Fiery Cross Reef (known as Yongshu in China, Kagitingan in the Philippines and Da Chu Thap in Vietnam) in the Spratly Islands, into a fully formed 44 square kilometers artificial island. The island will include an airstrip and sea port to enable China to project its military strength in the South China Sea more effectively. A retired People's Liberation Army senior colonel, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the construction of a landing strip on Fiery Cross Reef would allow China to better prepare for the establishment of an air defence identification zone over the South China Sea.The island will include an airstrip and sea port to enable China to project its military strength in the South China Sea more effectively.
The reef currently houses Chinese-built facilities including an observation post commissioned by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission.
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