Monthly Archives: August 2016

A Pacific Admiral Takes China’s Measure

Beijing has a consistent explanation for the rising tensions in the South China Sea: It’s America’s fault. As Chinese leaders tell it, their country is the victim of a U.S. bullying campaign designed to keep China down by uniting Asian states against it. For proof they cite episodes such as the recent United Nations arbitration […]

Vietnam responds after Chinese minister calls for ‘people’s war’ at sea

The two countries continue to trade diplomatic barbs over the flashpoint South China Sea. “Officials of other countries need to speak and act in accordance with official statements as well as their nations’ obligations, that is, repecting international law, refraining from using or threatening to use force, and actively contributing to peace and stability in […]

Cause for optimism in the South China Sea

The ruling by the Annex VII Tribunal on the South China Sea maritime dispute between the Philippines and China lays down an unprecedented legal benchmark for disputes in the region. The unanimous decision of the five-member Tribunal addresses in detail all of the claims made by the Philippines. Only one claim was dismissed on jurisdictional […]

Chinese malware spying on Philippines – security firm

In a report released last week, Finland-based cyber security firm F-Secure identified the malware as NanHaiShu (translated as South China Sea rat), a Remote Access Trojan that can access information from infected computers to its command server. STAR/File photo MANILA, Philippines – Malware traced by a security firm to China has been discovered to have […]

The Alleged Chinese Hacking at Vietnam’s Airports Shows That the South China Sea Battle Isn’t Just in the Water

PERTH, Australia — On July 29, loudspeakers and screens for national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines were hijacked in two major Vietnam airports in the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Offensive messages and what has been described by state media as “distorted information” about Vietnam and the Philippines’ claims to the South China […]

Sea jab clouds China visit

New Delhi, Aug. 6: Two statements by junior foreign minister V.K. Singh last week backing Manila over Beijing in a major maritime dispute are threatening to cloud a visit by Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, adding to a series of spats already pockmarking India’s relationship with its largest neighbour. India has repeatedly advocated diplomacy and […]

China arming for long war in South China Sea with more aircraft carriers, J-15 fighters

BEIJING: China, which is developing two more aircraft carriers, is building up a naval-aviation division to safeguard the country’s maritime interests amid escalating tensions over the disputed South China Sea. China commissioned its first aircraft carrier Liaoning in September 2012 and launched a specially designed J-15 fighter jets to operate from its deck. Although it’s […]