Recent satellite imagery analyzed by Reuters indicates that new military installations have been detected on an islet near Antelope Reef in the Paracels archipelago. Analysts suggest that this site may become China’s largest military base in the disputed South China Sea. The developments highlight ongoing tensions in the region as China continues to assert its claims over the area.
The Chinese defence ministry did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment. The Vietnamese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a Reuters’ request for comment. Vantor, a commercial provider of satellite images, said it took the latest image on August 17, noting in other images that construction started in March and April.
“several structures on Yagong Reef resemble other military radar/early warning facilities seen elsewhere in the South China Sea and are likely associated with the ultimate military functions of nearby Antelope Reef,” a Vantor spokesperson said While the purpose of the buildings was not certain. China has not acknowledged the construction of a new military base, and state media have said Antelope will meet civilian needs such as weather forecasting, fisheries protection and scientific research. Open source intelligence tracker Damien Symon, who has monitored Paracels activity, said a radar facility was possible but it was too early to make a solid call.
