China Accelerates South China Sea Land Reclamation: US
China embarked upon extensive land reclamation efforts in the disputed Spratly Islands this year, adding huge amounts of terrain as of December to bolster its presence in an area claimed by rivals, a new Pentagon report said.
According to a WSJ report, the American officials have determined that in the past five months alone, China has expanded the artificial islands on submerged reefs known as the Spratlys fourfold to as much as 2,000 acres of land.
The new estimate, disclosed for the first time, comes as the Pentagon released its annual report on China's military power, says AFP.
The report warns that while the intent of Beijing's construction in contested islands in the South China Sea intent is unclear, five emerging outposts could be used for surveillance systems, harbors, an airfield and logistical support.
The commander of the US Pacific Fleet, Admiral Harry Harris, said in March that China is "creating a Great wall of sand."
The South China Sea is home to strategically vital shipping lanes and is believed to be rich in oil and gas. Washington is concerned China's efforts carry a military dimension that could undermine America's naval and economic power in the Pacific.
China has said the United States and other countries would be welcome to use civilian facilities it is building for search and rescue and other purposes. State spokesman Jeff Rathke said the U.S. position is that this activity does not add to regional stability.
