BLUF
Satellite images show new structures on Yagong Island near Antelope Reef, raising speculation China is expanding a major South China Sea military base, potentially with radar facilities. Beijing, however, says the development supports civilian purposes.Learning Outcomes
- Explain the significance of recent construction activity on Yagong Island and Antelope Reef within the disputed South China Sea.
- Analyse how satellite imagery and open-source intelligence are used to assess potential military developments and strategic capabilities.
- Evaluate the geopolitical implications of China's activities in the Paracel Islands, including their impact on regional security, territorial disputes, and freedom of navigation.
