China is expanding its military capabilities on Triton Island in the South China Sea, installing advanced radar and other military infrastructure, according to a recent report by Chatham House. Satellite imagery shows that China is building a counter-stealth radar system on Triton Island in the Paracel Islands chain, which will increase its surveillance over the region and strengthen its intelligence capabilities.
The new radar system, known as a synthetic impulse and aperture radar, is designed to detect stealth aircraft, allowing China to monitor air and naval activity in the South China Sea. The radar installation on Triton Island will close a surveillance gap, linking up with similar systems China has on Subi Reef and Hainan Island. The island also now includes a large pad, likely intended for anti-ship missiles, and storage facilities for military equipment.
China’s power play in the South China Sea! New state-of-the-art counter-stealth radar system being built on Triton Island in the disputed Paracel Islands. Geopolitical tensions rise as China bolsters its military presence.
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— Vishnu K Sajeev (@vishnu_ksajeev) October 27, 2024
The expanded radar capabilities give China an advantage over nearby nations, particularly Vietnam, which also claims the Paracel Islands. Chatham House reports that China’s new facilities will make it harder for Vietnam to operate undetected in the area, impacting its access to natural resources like oil and gas. Additionally, the radar system poses challenges for the U.S. and its allies, as it may reduce the effectiveness of U.S. stealth aircraft in the region.
China gained control of Triton Island after a clash with South Vietnam in 1974 and has since built up its military presence in the area. The Paracel Islands, strategically located in a heavily trafficked trade route, are also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.
China’s recent military expansion follows continued disputes in the area over fishing rights and resource access, with recent reports of confrontations between Chinese and Vietnamese forces. The U.S., which regularly conducts freedom of navigation operations in the region, has pledged support to allies in the area.
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