China defends its South China Sea reclamations
Recent satellite imagery reveals China’s progress in reclaiming land in the South China Sea continues unabated. Significantly, Beijing is now building its first ever runway in the disputed Spratly Islands.
This construction is taking place at Fiery Cross Reef, 1,000+km from China’s coast, and by late March an area 503m x 53m for the 3,300m runway had already been paved. An apron measuring 400m x 20m has been constructed to date too.
China began reclamation work there late last year, and the reef is likely to host a runway 3,000m long. A harbour is also being constructed on the reef,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy to invest nearly $12 billion in maritime uncrewed systems and naval munitions in FY2026]()
US Navy to invest nearly $12 billion in maritime uncrewed systems and naval munitions in FY2026
Forming part of the Reconciliation Bill, the funding will support multiple efforts involving autonomous capabilities, interceptors, missiles, rockets and torpedoes.
-
![US Navy receives final Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship]()
US Navy receives final Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship
The delivery acceptance of the future USS Pierre marks the conclusion of the construction phase for the Independence-variant.
-
![RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser]()
RTX Raytheon advances with the development of new Barracuda mine neutraliser
The new Barracuda version has been engineered to perform enhanced subsea and seabed warfare missions.
