US invokes UNCLOS in Spratly patrol
After numerous recent hints the US Navy (USN) finally conducted a much-anticipated freedom-of-navigation (FON) patrol in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea on 27 October.
USS Lassen, believed accompanied by patrol aircraft, sailed within 12 nautical miles of the reclaimed Subi Reef, where a runway appears to be under construction. The USN destroyer was trailed by two People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels.
The USN pointed out the action was non-aggressive and designed to underscore the right to routine navigation. Close ally, Australia, immediately issued a supporting statement: ‘It is important to recognise that all states
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