중국 어선 200여척 대규모 해상 집결…또 ‘필리핀 암초’ 노리나

A recent report by the Japan's Asahi Shimbun on 23rd August has revealed that over 200 Chinese fishing vessels are currently gathered around Mischief Reef, a disputed island between the Philippines and China. This observation suggests a potential blockade of the Philippine-claimed coral reef, which Manila has been asserting sovereignty over.

The report quoted Deep Dive, a Japanese non-profit private investigative organization, stating that over 200 Chinese fishing vessels have gathered around Mischief Reef in recent weeks. The vessels are believed to be coastal defense boats due to their configuration. According to Deep Dive's analysis of commercial satellite imagery, the number of Chinese vessels in the area has surged from around 40 in normal times to nearly 80 by late May, and now exceeds 200.

Several vessels have been seen grouped together, forming large convoys that are unlikely to be engaged in fishing. This suggests that the Chinese vessels are not engaged in fishing activities. The Philippines' Second Thomas Shoal, which is under Philippine jurisdiction, lies just 40 nautical miles south of Mischief Reef. Philippine officials have warned that the Chinese actions could be a prelude to aggression.

China's past behavior in Mischief Reef, where they have previously deployed large numbers of fishing vessels to assert control, supports this concern. The U.S. Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) notes that Mischief Reef has been transformed into a military base with a runway, radar, and missile facilities. This has raised concerns in the Philippines, who are closely monitoring Chinese activities in the South China Sea.

Deep Dive has suggested that the Chinese vessels might be waiting to block the Philippine claim to the Second Thomas Shoal. The situation warrants continued observation to prevent a repetition of past conflicts.