Tag: Global News Watch

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China’s Latest South China Sea Map: A Provocation and a Challenge

China’s Latest S. China Sea Map screen shot from Youtube

As members and subscribers of the Americans for a Stronger Navy, you are well aware of the importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where the United States and its allies and partners can uphold the rules-based order and protect their national interests.

The South China Sea, a vital waterway for global trade and security, is at the heart of this region.

However, China’s aggressive and expansive claims to sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, as well as its militarization of disputed features, pose a serious threat to the peace and stability of the region, as well as to the freedom of navigation and overflight that the United States and other countries enjoy under international law.

On Monday, August 28, 2023, China released a new map of its infamous U-shaped line, also known as the nine-dash line, that covers about 90% of the South China Sea.

This map, which was published by the Ministry of Natural Resources, is the latest in a series of official maps that China has issued since 1947 to assert its sovereignty over the sea and its islands, reefs, and resources. The map also includes Taiwan, which China considers as a renegade province, and parts of India’s Arunachal Pradesh state, which China claims as part of Tibet.

The map has been met with strong rejection and protest by the other claimants in the South China Sea, namely Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These countries have their own claims to sovereignty over various features and zones in the sea, based on historical evidence, geographic proximity, or international law.

They have also challenged China’s U-shaped line as baseless and illegal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines the rights and obligations of coastal states in their territorial seas, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), and continental shelves. In 2016, an arbitral tribunal constituted under UNCLOS ruled in favor of the Philippines in its case against China, declaring that China’s U-shaped line had no legal basis and that China had violated the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its EEZ.

China rejected the ruling as null and void and continued to assert its claims and activities in the sea.

The United States, which is not a party to UNCLOS but abides by its provisions as customary international law, has also expressed its opposition to China’s U-shaped line and its actions in the South China Sea.

The United States has declared that it has a national interest in preserving freedom of navigation and overflight in the sea, as well as in supporting its allies and partners in defending their rights and interests.

The United States has also conducted regular freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) and presence operations in the sea to challenge China’s excessive maritime claims and to demonstrate its commitment to upholding international law.

The United States has also provided diplomatic, legal, and security assistance to the other claimants in the sea to enhance their capabilities and resilience.

The release of China’s new map is not only a provocation to the other claimants in the sea, but also a challenge to the United States and its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The map shows that China is not willing to compromise or cooperate on resolving the disputes in the sea peacefully and in accordance with international law. Instead, China is determined to impose its will and dominance over the sea and its resources, regardless of the rights and interests of other countries.

The map also shows that China is not deterred by the United States’ presence and actions in the sea, but rather seeks to test and undermine them.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy believes that China’s new map is unacceptable and unacceptable. We urge our government to continue to stand firm against China’s aggression and expansionism in the South China Sea.

We call on our government to increase its diplomatic engagement with our allies and partners in the region to coordinate our responses and strategies. We also call on our government to enhance our naval presence and capabilities in the region to deter further Chinese provocations and to defend our national interests.

We believe that a strong navy is essential for ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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U.S. Navy’s New Stance: 3,000 Strong in the Strait of Hormuz

In this photo released Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023, by Sepahnews of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, the Guard’s speedboats participate during a drill in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. military is considering putting armed personnel on commercial ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, in what would be an unheard of action aimed at stopping Iran from seizing and harassing civilian vessels,

Greetings to members and supporters of Americans for a Stronger Navy. The Strait of Hormuz, a globally critical maritime channel, is once again in the spotlight. As reported by ABC News on August 7, 2023, more than 3,000 U.S. Marines and sailors have been swiftly deployed to the Middle East.

Their mission? To deter Iran from its growing ambitions of seizing and harassing merchant ships in the region. This pivotal move underscores the strategic and economic importance of the strait, and the lengths the U.S. is willing to go to protect it.

The Strait’s Global Significance

Economic Lifeline: This narrow passage facilitates a colossal volume of global maritime oil and gas trade daily.

The Tension Rises: The U.S. Navy has highlighted the gravity of the situation, declaring Iran’s actions a considerable “threat to … maritime security and the global economy.”
Delving Into the Current U.S. Strategy

Operational Readiness: The newly deployed troops, stationed on the USS Carter Hall and USS Bataan, come well-equipped with advanced aircraft and tactical assets, reinforcing the U.S.’s commitment to this global chokepoint.

Marines Onboard: A bold move sees U.S. Marines taking positions on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Initiated by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, this strategy aims to serve as a strong deterrent against Iranian threats.

Iran’s Increasing Aggression

Continual Harassment: Recent reports outline Iran’s alarming behavior, from seizing oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman to continually threatening maritime security since 2021.
Iran Pushes Back: Not all claims go uncontested. Iranian officials attribute some of their actions to alternative motives, like responding to distress calls.

Looking Ahead: A Proactive Naval Response

Anticipated Protection: The U.S. is actively awaiting requests from commercial entities desiring protection in the region. This initiative, available voluntarily, extends to U.S.-flagged ships and those associated with American interests.

Conclusion and Advocacy

The Strait of Hormuz’s emerging challenges highlight the urgent need for a fortified naval stance. As “Americans for a Stronger Navy,” we relentlessly advocate for robust naval preparedness. Let’s champion the cause of maritime security together.

Join the Cause
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How the US Navy and Marines are Countering Iran’s Threats in the Gulf

USS Bataan


The US Navy and Marines are increasing their presence and capabilities in the Persian Gulf region amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program and its attempts to seize commercial tankers.

The Pentagon has sent more than 3,000 personnel and Marines, along with the USS Bataan, an amphibious assault ship that can carry dozens of aircraft and landing craft, to join the 5th Fleet based in Bahrain.

The Marines are training to escort and protect commercial shipping from Iranian harassment and aggression, which has escalated in recent months.

The US also deployed stealth F-35 fighters and other warplanes to the region to enhance its air power and deterrence.

The US military buildup comes as the diplomatic efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have stalled, and as a UN sanctions deadline on Iran approaches in October. Iran has been enriching uranium closer to weapons-grade levels and developing new ballistic missiles that can target US ships and bases.

Iran has also been involved in a series of attacks on oil tankers and facilities in the Gulf region since 2019, which have strained its relations with its Arab neighbors and raised the risk of a wider conflict.

The US hopes that its show of force will persuade Iran to return to the negotiating table and comply with the nuclear deal, as well as to respect the freedom of navigation and security of commercial shipping in the Gulf. However, Iran has denounced the US military presence as a threat to its sovereignty and regional stability, and has vowed to continue its nuclear activities and defend its interests.

The situation remains volatile and unpredictable, as both sides are testing each other’s resolve and red lines.

For more information on this topic, you can check out these news sources:
• U.S. Marines Are at the Ready to Protect Commercial Ships in the Persian Gulf
• Why is US sending 3,000 Navy, Marines force to Persian Gulf?
• Analysis: Buildup of American forces in Persian Gulf a new signal of worsening US-Iran conflict

About the USS Bataan

Aircraft carried
Actual mix depends on the mission
Standard Complement:
6 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
6 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
4 AH-1W /Z Super Cobra /Viper attack helicopter
12 MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
4 CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters
3–4 UH-1Y Venom utility helicopters
Assault:
22+ MV-22B Osprey assault support tiltrotor
Sea Control:
20 AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft
or
20 F-35B Lightning II stealth strike-fighters
6 SH-60F/HH-60H ASW helicopters

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Ukrainian Naval Drone Damages Russian Warship in Bold Black Sea Attack: A Call for a Stronger Navy

This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC appears to show the damaged Russian landing vessel Olenegorsky Gornyak leaking oil while docked at Novorossiysk, Russia, Friday, Aug. 4, 2023. (Planet Labs PBC via AP) (Planet Labs PBC/AP)

Introduction:

On August 4, 2023, a Ukrainian naval drone attacked a Russian Black Sea navy base at Novorossiysk, causing serious damage to a Russian warship. This marked the first time the Ukrainian navy projected its power so far from its shores.

Key Takeaway (credit to Reuters):

  • A Russian warship was seriously damaged in the attack, carried out by two Ukrainian sea drones.
  • The Olenegorsky Gornyak, a Russian Navy landing ship with around 100 Russian servicemen on board, was hit by a sea drone carrying 450 kilograms of TNT.

Summary

  • Russia accuses Ukraine of naval drone attack on port
  • Russian warship seriously damaged, civilian ship movement temporarily halted
  • Ukrainian attack repelled, drones destroyed, but Russian warship incapacitatedThe attack shows a significant increase in Ukrainian naval range
  • Tensions escalate in the Black Sea with repeated attacks on port facilities and grain silos

Analysis:

The attack highlights the growing capabilities of the Ukrainian navy and the escalating tensions in the Black Sea region. It signals a potential shift in the balance of power and the need for stronger naval capabilities.

Conclusion:

The Ukrainian naval drone attack on the Russian warship at Novorossiysk demonstrates the need for a stronger navy to defend against emerging threats in the region.

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For more information on the importance of a stronger navy to safeguard national security and address emerging challenges, visit StrongerNavy.org.

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China’s Naval Base in Cambodia: A Challenge to US Interests

Cambodian Ream Naval Base in Sihanoukville, Cambodia,
Photo by screenshot Youtube

The recent revelation that China has made significant progress building a naval base in Cambodia has raised alarm bells in Washington and the region.

According to satellite imagery, China is close to completing a pier that could berth an aircraft carrier at Ream Naval Base, near Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand. This Chinese-funded project would extend Beijing’s military reach into the contested waters of Southeast Asia, where it faces rival claims from several countries, including US allies.

China and Cambodia have denied that the People’s Liberation Army will have access to the base, claiming that the construction is for Cambodia’s navy and that the two countries have no secret agreement. However, US officials and analysts have voiced suspicions that the base is part of China’s broader strategy to expand its influence and challenge US presence and interests in the region.

China has over the past decade built a number of military bases on reefs and reclaimed land in the South China Sea, where it claims almost the entire waterway as its sovereign territory.

The US has conducted freedom of navigation operations and military exercises to challenge China’s claims and assert its support for its regional partners.

A naval base in Cambodia would give China another strategic advantage, as it would provide access to the Gulf of Thailand and the Malacca Strait, a vital choke point for global trade and energy flows.

A Chinese military presence at Ream Naval Base would also have implications for the balance of power across Southeast Asia, where many countries are wary of China’s growing assertiveness and seek to maintain good relations with both Beijing and Washington. Cambodia, once a close ally of the US during the Cold War, has tilted towards China in recent years, receiving billions of dollars in aid, investment and loans from Beijing.

The US has criticized Cambodia for its democratic backsliding, human rights violations and crackdown on dissent under Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has ruled the country since 1985.
The US has urged Cambodia to be transparent about its intentions and activities at Ream Naval Base, and to respect its constitutional prohibition on foreign military bases on its soil.

The US has also sought to deepen its security ties with other countries in the region, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, to counter China’s influence and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

In August 2022, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Phnom Penh and raised the issue of the naval base with Cambodian officials, saying that it would pose a threat to Southeast Asia if used exclusively for China’s military.

The development of Ream Naval Base is a clear sign of China’s ambition to become a global naval power and a challenge to US interests and values in the region.

The US should continue to monitor the situation closely and engage with Cambodia and other regional partners to uphold a rules-based order and prevent any escalation or conflict in the waters of Southeast Asia.

Sources:
• Chinese base in Cambodia nears completion in challenge to US naval power (Financial Times)
• Cambodian Ream Naval Base Modernized by China Nears Completion: Defense Ministry (VOA News)
• Is China building a military base in Cambodia? (Chatham House)
• China’s Base in Cambodia Nearing Completion, Challenging US Naval Power (Military View)

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A Historic Meeting for a Stronger Navy

PSecretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III greets Papua New Guinean Minister for Defense Win Daki in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, July 27, 2023.

a also faces many challenges, such as poverty, corruption, health crises, environmental degradation, and illegal fishing. Moreover, it is located in a region where China is expanding its influence and presence, posing threats to the sovereignty and security of our allies and partners.

That is why the United States has been working closely with Papua New Guinea to support its development and defense needs. The United States has already provided personal protective equipment to the country to help it combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement

The meeting between Secretary Austin and Papua New Guinea’s defense leaders resulted in two major outcomes that will benefit both countries and our navy.

First, the two countries concluded a shiprider agreement in May. This agreement will allow Papua New Guinea’s forces to ride along with U.S. Coast Guard vessels patrolling the area. This collaboration will help the country enforce its sovereignty and combat illegal fishing activities, ensuring the protection of its marine resources.

Second, the two countries negotiated and signed a landmark Defense Cooperation Agreement that will deepen U.S.-PNG ties. The Defense Cooperation Agreement is currently awaiting approval from Papua New Guinea’s parliament.

This agreement seeks to deepen the defense ties between the two nations and enable the United States to support the modernization of Papua New Guinea’s defense force. It will foster closer collaboration on exercises, training, interoperability, and defense-capacity building.

Furthermore, the agreement presents opportunities for joint infrastructure investment and expanded U.S. defense presence in Papua New Guinea, beyond small-scale projects. By working together, the two countries aim to promote a vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where international law is upheld, and disputes are resolved peacefully and without coercion.

A Step Towards a Stronger Navy

We applaud Secretary Austin for his leadership and vision in forging this historic partnership with Papua New Guinea. We believe that this partnership will enhance our security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, which is vital for our national interests and global stability.

We also believe that this partnership will strengthen our navy by providing more opportunities for training, interoperability, and presence in a strategic area. A stronger navy means a stronger America.

We hope that you share our enthusiasm and support for this historic meeting and its outcomes. We encourage you to learn more about this meeting by reading this article from the Department of Defense.

We also invite you to join us in our efforts to advocate for a stronger navy by becoming a member or making a donation to our organization. You can visit our website at www.americansforastrongernavy.org to find out more about our work and how you can get involved.

Thank you for your attention and support.
Sincerely,
The Americans for a Stronger Navy Team

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Strengthening America’s Navy: Together Towards a Secure Indo-Pacific

Lindsey Ford, deputy assistant secretary of defense for South and Southeast Asia, speaks with Navy Rear Adm. Mark Melson, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, and Navy Capt. Frank Okata, Singapore Area Coordinator, about the amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha during a scheduled visit to Singapore Naval Installation, Jan. 17.

Dear Members and Subscribers,

We are excited to reach out to you today as Americans for a Stronger Navy, an organization dedicated to advocating for a robust and capable United States Navy. We believe that a strong navy is not only vital to our nation’s security but also plays a crucial role in safeguarding global stability and prosperity. Recent events have underscored the importance of our mission, and we want to share with you why this matters to each of us, our organization, the Navy, and the rest of the world.

The Changing Landscape:

The Indo-Pacific region, spanning vast territories and diverse nations, is at the forefront of global geopolitical challenges. We cannot ignore the rapid rise of China, which actively seeks to challenge the international rules-based order established after World War II. The United States, together with our allies and partners, must respond decisively to protect our interests, ensure regional stability, and uphold the principles that have guided us for decades.

The Role of the United States Navy:

The United States Navy has long been the cornerstone of American power projection and influence in the Indo-Pacific. It has played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and stability throughout the region. However, as the security environment evolves, so too must our naval capabilities and strategies. We need a strong and modern navy that can deter potential threats, protect our national interests, and respond effectively to emerging challenges.

What Just Took Place:

Recent developments have highlighted the urgency of this mission. The Center of Strategic and International Studies 2023 Indo-Pacific Conference shed light on the significance of our network of allies and friends in the region. It emphasized that our military presence has been a force for stability and prosperity, countering notions that it is destabilizing or provocative. Our allies and partners have expressed a keen interest in a more robust U.S. presence, reinforcing the importance of our role in the Indo-Pacific.

Our Advocacy and Your Support:

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are committed to advocating for a stronger United States Navy and a comprehensive strategy tailored to the Indo-Pacific. We believe that by strengthening our naval capabilities, enhancing alliances, and engaging with regional partners, we can effectively address the evolving challenges in the region. Our advocacy extends beyond military strength, as we recognize the significance of a multilateral approach that promotes dialogue, cooperation, and collective security.

Your support is crucial to our mission. By joining our cause, you contribute to the effort to bolster America’s naval capabilities and advance our nation’s strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a secure future for ourselves, our allies, and the entire world.

Conclusion:

As we navigate an ever-changing world, a strong United States Navy remains essential to protect our interests, promote stability, and uphold the values we hold dear. Through our advocacy efforts, we aim to reinforce the significance of a robust naval presence in the Indo-Pacific and engage with our allies and partners to build a resilient security network. We invite you to join us in this critical endeavor and help shape a future where a stronger navy contributes to a safer and more prosperous world.

Thank you for your continued support.

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Strengthening the US Navy: Safeguarding American Interests at Sea

Introduction:
In a recent incident that highlights the increasing assertiveness of Beijing in the South China Sea, a Chinese warship narrowly avoided colliding with the USS Chung-Hoon, an American destroyer according to press reports.

As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize the significance of such incidents and the need to address the challenges facing our naval forces. This article delves into the debate surrounding the shipbuilding of US naval vessels and explores the arguments for and against allowing them to be built elsewhere. By examining this issue, we aim to inform and inspire our readers, reinforcing the importance of a strong and self-sufficient US Navy.

Summary:
This article discusses a near-collision between a Chinese warship and the USS Chung-Hoon, emphasizing the aggressive military maneuvers of Beijing in the South China Sea. The incident occurred during a joint Canada-US mission sailing through the Taiwan Strait. Such confrontations underscore the critical role of the US Navy and the necessity to address the challenges faced by American naval forces. The article further explores the ongoing debate about where US naval ships should be built, offering insights from both sides of the argument.

The Incident in the South China Sea:
During a joint Canada-US mission, a Chinese warship came within 150 yards of the USS Chung-Hoon, nearly causing a collision. The encounter exemplifies the increasingly provocative actions of Beijing in the South China Sea.

The Importance of a Strong US Navy:
A robust US Navy is vital to ensuring national security and protecting American interests worldwide. The ability to project power, maintain freedom of navigation, and respond to global threats relies on a strong and capable naval force.

The Debate: Building US Naval Ships Elsewhere:
There is an ongoing debate regarding whether US naval ships should be built exclusively in the United States or if the law should be changed to allow for construction in other locations. Proponents argue that building ships abroad could reduce costs and increase efficiency, while opponents emphasize the need to preserve domestic shipbuilding capabilities and ensure national security.

Balancing Costs and National Security:
Advocates for building naval ships overseas argue that cost savings and access to specialized expertise could enhance the fleet’s capabilities. However, opponents emphasize the strategic importance of maintaining domestic shipbuilding capacity, which supports jobs, protects sensitive technologies, and ensures national sovereignty.

Key Takeaways:

The incident between the Chinese warship and the USS Chung-Hoon underscores the need for a strong US Navy capable of protecting American interests and maintaining global stability.
The debate surrounding the location of shipbuilding for US naval vessels raises important considerations about costs, efficiency, national security, and domestic job creation.
Americans for a Stronger Navy advocates for the preservation of domestic shipbuilding capabilities to ensure national sovereignty and maintain the strength of the US Navy.

Conclusion:
The incident in the South China Sea serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of a strong and self-sufficient US Navy. Americans for a Stronger Navy believes that preserving domestic shipbuilding capabilities is essential to safeguarding national security, supporting American jobs, and protecting sensitive technologies. We urge our readers to join us in our mission and support a robust US Navy that can effectively respond to global challenges, uphold freedom of navigation, and protect American interests at sea and beyond. Together, we can ensure a safer and more prosperous future for our nation.

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A Mark of Resilience: USS Nimitz Arrives in Sasebo, Solidifying US-Japan Alliance

USS Nimitz

Introduction

In a significant demonstration of the enduring American naval presence in the Pacific, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11 has anchored at Sasebo, Japan, after extensive operations in the South China Sea and the Philippine Sea. This event serves as a clear reminder of the unwavering partnership between the United States and Japan that has been the bedrock of stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region since 1951. This pivotal moment perfectly embodies the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy, and underscores the importance of maintaining a formidable maritime force that is respected on the global stage.

“We look forward to participating in professional engagements while meeting Sasebo’s amazing people and experiencing its locales and culture,” says Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, commander, CSG 11.

Summary

This article recounts the recent arrival of the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and its associated units from Carrier Strike Group 11 in Sasebo, Japan. Fresh from operations in the South China Sea and a port visit to Laem Chabang, Thailand, the Nimitz’s arrival highlights the enduring alliance between the United States and Japan. More than 5,000 sailors are set to engage in cultural excursions and enjoy the region’s distinctive culture and local hospitality, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

Key Takeaways

A Testament to Global Maritime Power

The arrival of the USS Nimitz in Sasebo, Japan, is a potent symbol of the United States’ commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. It’s an embodiment of the strength, resilience, and professionalism that define the US Navy.

Strengthening Alliances

This event underlines the solid alliance between the United States and Japan, built over 70 years of mutual cooperation and shared security goals. It is a testament to how effective partnerships enhance stability and security in a highly dynamic region.

Cultural Exchange and Interaction

Beyond military operations, the USS Nimitz’s arrival facilitates cultural interaction and understanding. With over 5,000 sailors exploring Sasebo and neighboring cities, these personal experiences foster goodwill and deepen the bonds between the US and Japan.

Conclusion

This recent development underscores the importance of a robust Navy to safeguard global peace and security. Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to champion the cause of our sailors and the Navy community. We invite you, our esteemed readers, to join us in celebrating this moment and supporting our mission to fortify America’s maritime might. Let us rally around the men and women who, like the USS Nimitz, stand as the vanguard of our nation’s security and global stability.