Where to now in South China Sea?
Predictably, China reacted furiously to the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s (PCA) decision handed down on 12 July against its maritime claims in the South China Sea.
In its 501-page report the tribunal found Beijing violated 14 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provisions, six international regulations preventing collisions at sea and one general rule of international law.
One cannot blame China for wishing to protect national interests. Indeed, the US does precisely the same by refusing to ratify UNCLOS, all the while advising China to abide by the same rules. Nevertheless, China’s besmirching of an international
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging]()
As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging
Research programmes and system procurement efforts to counter uncrewed surface and underwater vehicle threats are accelerating as naval drone uptake spreads.
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027]()
US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027
After recording a nearly six-year delay in the OPC schedule, the USCG intends to advance with the programme, reaching multiple milestones in the short term.
-
![Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached]()
Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached
Australia’s selection of an upgraded Mogami-class frigate marks Japan’s first-ever export of a major surface combatant. With an ambitious 2029 delivery target, the deal could open the door to further naval exports – but inexperience and geopolitical friction with China loom large.
