Jonas EricsonFeb 25
1/3) Tensions in the South China Sea have risen again. Chinese vessels are operating near Philippine-held areas, reports of signal jamming are increasing, and a Philippine aircraft approaching Pag-asa Island was met with the radio message “Welcome to China.” A clear example of gray-zone pressure without open conflict.
#SouthChinaSea #IndoPacific #Security
Show threadJonas Ericson
2/3) Pag-asa is a Philippine-controlled, inhabited island in the Spratlys. China contests the area and uses presence, messaging, and pressure to challenge control without escalation. At the same time, the US and Philippines are expanding joint exercises and strengthening surveillance and defense cooperation.
#Geopolitics #Deterrence
Feb 25 at 7:18pmMastodon for iOS
Show threadJonas EricsonFeb 25
3/3) At the same time, the US has rotated a carrier to the Middle East. In the South China Sea, deterrence is maintained through exercises, increased surveillance, and rotational assets such as drones, air defense, radar, and land-based missile systems. Flexible force posture.
#Strategy #IndoPacific #Security