Tag: South China Sea

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A Sea of Tensions: Understanding the South China Sea Dispute and America’s Naval Imperative

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) sets anchors in Manila, Philippines. USS Carl Vinson is in the Philippines for a port visit, supporting operational readiness and regional partnerships.

To Members and Friends,

In these rapidly evolving times, the strategic landscape of the South China Sea is more critical than ever to our national security and maritime interests. Recent events in this region, coupled with the burgeoning naval capabilities of our potential adversaries, underline the urgency of our mission at “Americans for a Stronger Navy.”

Rising Tensions in the South China Sea

The South China Sea, a hub of global maritime traffic and rich in resources, has become a focal point for international power dynamics. The U.S. and China have conducted significant military exercises in these waters, signaling the area’s strategic importance. This tense atmosphere was further amplified by a recent collision involving Philippine and Chinese vessels near a disputed reef, highlighting the area’s volatility.

China’s Escalating Naval Dominance

As reported in the Jan. 2 issue of the Wall Street Journal by Seth G. Jones of CSIS, the Chinese navy’s expansion is a cause for concern. Not limited to the sheer number of ships, China’s ominous growth in shipbuilding capacity is particularly alarming. With a staggering capacity of 23 million tons, one Chinese shipyard on Changxing Island alone surpasses the combined capacity of all U.S. shipyards. This disparity in shipbuilding capabilities is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining our naval strength and readiness.

Global Defense Spending: A Comparative Analysis

In the shadow of these developments, nations like Japan have significantly increased their defense budgets in response to Chinese expansionism.

Japan’s defense allocation now stands at USD 47.7 billion, a 16.5% increase. However, when compared to China’s defense expenditure of USD 292 billion in 2022 (as reported by SIPRI), the imbalance becomes evident.

The United States, with a defense budget of $877 billion, continues to lead in absolute terms, but when viewed as a percentage of GDP, our current spending of 3% is notably lower than historical highs during previous administrations.

Why Should America Care

The implications of these developments extend far beyond the territorial disputes of the South China Sea. They touch upon fundamental aspects of international law, freedom of navigation, and the global balance of power. The United States, with its longstanding commitment to these principles, must view the situation in the South China Sea as a barometer for broader geopolitical shifts.

Conclusion

In light of Seth G. Jones’ report and the ongoing developments in the South China Sea, it’s evident that our mission is more pertinent than ever. The gap in shipbuilding capacity, coupled with the varying levels of defense expenditure globally, highlights the need for a robust and forward-looking U.S. naval strategy. We must advocate for the resources and policies necessary to ensure that our Navy remains capable of meeting these emerging challenges.

As we face these uncertain times, your support and engagement with “Americans for a Stronger Navy” are invaluable. Together, we stand vigilant, advocating for a Navy that is not only strong today but is prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

For Freedom and Security,
Americans for a Stronger Navy

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Revealed Seas: How Hidden Maritime Activities Impact Naval Strategy and Ocean Security

Introduction

In the vast expanse of our oceans, a groundbreaking discovery has been made, shedding light on what has been hidden in plain sight. A recent study by Global Fishing Watch, backed by Google, has unveiled an astonishing level of previously untracked human activity at sea, posing significant implications for maritime policy, environmental conservation, and national security.

Unveiling the Unseen

Researchers utilized AI and satellite data to reveal that a staggering 72 to 76 percent of the world’s industrial fishing vessels, along with a significant portion of transport and energy vessel activity, were not being tracked by public systems. This study, involving a massive analysis of 2 million gigabytes of satellite imagery across six continents, highlights the collaboration among Global Fishing Watch, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Duke University, UC Santa Barbara, and SkyTruth. The findings also showed a large presence of ‘dark fleets’ in marine protected areas and in countries previously believed to have minimal vessel activity.

Why This Matters

The discovery of such a high number of ‘dark vessels’ raises critical concerns about overfishing, illegal activities, and the environmental impact of unregulated maritime operations. The study revealed a stark discrepancy in fishing activity between Asia and Europe, illustrating the scale of unmonitored fishing activities and the need for improved surveillance and tracking systems

Implications for the Navy

This revelation has several key implications for naval operations:

  1. Enhanced Surveillance and Security: Adapting surveillance techniques to effectively monitor these vessels is crucial for maritime security.
  2. Maritime Domain Awareness: The data aids in understanding traffic patterns and deploying naval resources more effectively.
  3. Environmental Protection Role: The Navy could enforce environmental regulations at sea.
  4. International Collaboration: The findings highlight the importance of global cooperation in maritime surveillance.
  5. Technological Advancements: This could inspire the use of similar AI and satellite imagery technologies in naval operations.

Should Americans Care?

Absolutely. The security and sustainability of our oceans have direct impacts on national security, economic stability, and environmental health. The study’s technology can be used to combat climate change, improving estimates of greenhouse gas emissions at sea and guiding wind development.

Conclusion

The open data and technology used in the study can help governments, researchers, and civil society to identify hotspots of potentially illegal activity, determine where industrial fishing vessels may be encroaching on artisanal fishing grounds, or simply better understand vessel traffic in their waters. Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, National Geographic Pristine Seas, Oceankind, and Google, this study marks the beginning of a new era in ocean management and transparency.

This study is a wake-up call to the hidden realities of our oceans and a call to action for enhanced global maritime governance and technological advancements in ocean monitoring.

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Fortifying Alliances: Philippine-US Naval Drills Amid South China Sea Tensions

US Navy Photo

The Philippine and US Navy have initiated high-stakes joint maritime drills in the South China Sea, as regional tensions with China continue to escalate. This marks a significant step in defense cooperation between the two nations.

Joint Maritime Exercise Details

The drills, starting on January 3, 2024, are the second such exercise in less than two months, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of military cooperation in the face of Chinese assertiveness in the region. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been actively strengthening defense ties with the US, as well as other allies like Japan and Australia, in response to China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea.

NHK World-Japan has confirmed that the Philippines and the United States began a two-day joint patrol in the South China Sea, underscoring the ongoing dispute in the region​​.

The Japan Times has reported that China conducted navy and air force patrols in the South China Sea, coinciding with the maritime drills by the U.S. and the Philippines in the same

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has expressed concerns over these developments, indicating “serious difficulties” in Beijing-Manila relations. The exercises included a variety of naval maneuvers and operations, involving multiple vessels and aircraft from both nations, aimed at enhancing interoperability and sending a strong message about the commitment to a rules-based international order and a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Takeaways

  1. Increased Frequency of Drills: The recent exercises underscore a growing pattern of joint military operations in the region.
  2. Strengthening Alliances: The Philippines is actively enhancing defense relations with the US and other regional powers.
  3. China’s Reaction: China’s response to these drills indicates a growing concern and potential diplomatic strain with the Philippines.
  4. Focus on a Rules-based Order: The drills are a clear message to uphold international maritime laws and freedom of navigation in the contested waters.

The joint maritime exercises between the Philippines and the US represent a significant development in regional defense dynamics. They not only demonstrate the robustness of the Philippine-US alliance but also signify a broader commitment to maintaining stability and a rules-based order in the South China Sea amidst rising tensions.

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Balancing Naval Power: The Role and Relevance of Small Combat Ships in a Modern Navy

Small Ship, Big Impact? Reevaluating the Navy’s Approach to Vessel Size.
U.S. NAVY

Introduction:

To the esteemed members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

In our continued endeavor to promote an educated dialogue surrounding the strength and direction of our nation’s naval forces, we bring forward an opinion piece recently penned by Craig Hooper for Forbes.

The piece titled “U.S. Navy Turns Away From Small Warships Despite Growing Demand, Tactical Relevance” delves into the Navy’s decision to shift focus away from small combat-oriented ships, despite their apparent global demand and tactical significance.

This is a topic of paramount importance, as the balance between small and large naval vessels has implications for our tactical flexibility, regional engagements, and how we project power and diplomacy on the global stage.

Key Takeaways:

Departure from Small Ships:

Hooper discusses the U.S. Navy’s move away from managing small combatants, such as the Cyclone class coastal patrol ships. This responsibility has now been transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard, which is grappling with its own challenges.

Global Interest in Small Vessels:

There seems to be a discrepancy between the U.S. Navy’s stance and the rest of the world. Many allies have shown keen interest in the U.S. Navy’s Cyclone class ships. This interest juxtaposes the Navy’s lack of enthusiasm to invest in small craft.

Unprecedented Elimination:

The wholesale removal of small combat-oriented ships from the U.S. Navy is a historical shift. Currently, the Naval Vessel Register lists only ten battle force ships under 2400-tons.

Differing Perspectives:

While the U.S. Navy finds smaller vessels vulnerable against adversaries like China, other nations seem to be taking a different stance. The South China Sea, for instance, has seen small ship engagements, with countries like the Philippines commissioning former U.S. Navy’s Cyclone class ships.

The Robot Replacements:

There’s a hint of an inclination to look towards maritime robots. While valuable, Hooper believes that they can’t yet replace the human-led missions of crewed small ships.

The Coast Guard’s Role:

With the Navy shifting its focus, the Coast Guard has been compelled to pick up the slack, despite its distinct and diverse mission set.

Conclusion:

We are grateful to Dr. Craig Hooper for shedding light on this evolving aspect of our naval strategy. While his perspective provides valuable insights, it’s crucial to remember the foundational principle of the Americans for a Stronger Navy: the belief in a robust, versatile, and adequately equipped naval force.

Both small and large vessels have their unique tactical and strategic advantages. As we advocate for a stronger Navy, it’s essential to understand the role of every ship, large or small, in ensuring America’s maritime supremacy.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment. Let’s foster an informed conversation, ensuring the best future for our Navy.

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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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USS Nimitz and the Blue Diamonds: A Stronger Navy in Action

Two F/A-18E Super Hornets from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 launch from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations.

Introduction:

The United States Navy is an essential component of the nation’s defense and plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to support the Navy’s efforts to enhance its capabilities and promote its mission.

Recently, the USS Nimitz and the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron 146 conducted flight operations in the Philippine Sea, highlighting the Navy’s readiness to defend the nation and its allies.

This accomplishment showcases the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, a central goal of the Americans for a Stronger Navy mission.

Summary:

*The USS Nimitz and the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron 146 conducted flight operations in the Philippine Sea, demonstrating the Navy’s ability to operate effectively and efficiently in support of its mission.

The U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, the 7th Fleet, routinely operates with allies and partners in the region to promote peace and stability.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization supports the Navy’s efforts to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific, and this accomplishment is a testament to the Navy’s commitment to that goal.

Key Takeaways:

  • The USS Nimitz and Strike Fighter Squadron 146 conducted flight operations in the Philippine Sea
  • The Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, the 7th Fleet, operates with allies and partners in the region
  • The Navy’s mission includes maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific
  • Americans for a Stronger Navy supports the Navy’s efforts to enhance its capabilities

Conclusion

  • The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to support the U.S. Navy and its mission to promote security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • The recent accomplishment of the USS Nimitz and Strike Fighter Squadron 146 highlights the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the region and defending the nation and its allies.
  • Navy’s mission and to support its efforts to enhance capabilities.
  • Together, we can ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific for generations to come.

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Celebrating the Stronger Navy’s Success in Preserving a Free and Open Indo-Pacific Region on the USS Nimitz

Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) 

Introduction:

The Navy plays a crucial role in maintaining global stability and PeaceTroughStrengh. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to informing and inspiring our readers to support the Navy’s mission.

Recently, the Navy achieved a significant accomplishment with the Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the South China Sea, which highlights the importance of having a strong Navy. In this article, we will explore this accomplishment and how it fits in with the mission of our organization.

Summary:

The Navy’s recent success in the South China Sea featuring Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 as it makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) demonstrates the importance of having a strong Navy in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Through routine operations and partnerships with allies and partners, the Navy maintains stability and ensures our country’s security. This article will delve into the key features and benefits of this accomplishment and how it aligns with the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Navy’s routine operations in the South China Sea are crucial in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
  • The feature of the Super Hornet from the “Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). 
  • The Navy works closely with allies and partners to maintain stability and ensure our country’s security.
  • Having a strong Navy is essential in maintaining global stability and keeping America safe.

Conclusion:

The Navy’s recent success in the South China Sea underscores the importance of having a strong Navy. As a member of the Navy community, we are proud to support this mission and encourage others to do the same. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to informing and inspiring our readers to support the Navy’s mission. Join us in supporting a strong Navy to ensure our country’s security and maintain global stability.

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United States and the Philippines Agree to Strengthen Their Alliance

Introduction:

The United States and the Philippines have come to an agreement to continue the vital work required to modernize and strengthen the alliance between the two nations. This agreement was reached between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during a ceremony at the Pentagon, where the U.S. reiterated its commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty. This commitment applies to armed attacks on the armed forces, coast guard vessels, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.

The Importance of the Alliance:

The alliance between the United States and the Philippines is of utmost importance, and the two nations have agreed to continue working together to ensure its success. The recent visit by Marcos to the Pentagon has furthered the efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. The U.S. is supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts and is helping to build their interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Deepening Coordination and Interoperability:

The two nations are deepening their coordination and interoperability, which is crucial to ensuring that the alliance is effective. The recent Balikatan exercise was the largest in history, with 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the United States, and Australia, covering land, sea, air, and cyber scenarios. Following on that effort is Cope Thunder, an exercise testing air power interoperability. The U.S. is committed to supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts, and this will help to build interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Expanding Operational Cooperation in the Maritime Domain:

The U.S. is committed to expanding its operational cooperation with the Philippines in the maritime domain, including the South China Sea. The two defense leaders discussed U.S. support for Philippine defense modernization efforts and the ongoing plans to continue to operationalize the agreement sites. These efforts will help to build interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

New Bilateral Defense Guidelines:

Marcos and Austin also discussed new bilateral defense guidelines. This item reflects the unprecedented effort behind modernizing the alliance to bring it into a new era of cooperation. The emphasis is to look at how threats arise in the various domains and what form those threats will take. This will enable Philippine and U.S. officials to chart a bilateral way forward to help build interoperability, information sharing, planning, etc., around how they address these conventional and nonconventional threats.

Key Takeaways:

The United States and the Philippines are committed to strengthening and modernizing their alliance.
Deepening coordination and interoperability are crucial to ensuring the alliance’s effectiveness.
The U.S. is committed to supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts.
The two nations are expanding their operational cooperation in the maritime domain, including the South China Sea.
New bilateral defense guidelines are being developed to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Conclusion:

The recent agreement between the United States and the Philippines to modernize and strengthen their alliance is a positive step towards ensuring the readiness of the U.S. Navy and the security of the people of America. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be a part of the Navy community and support efforts to strengthen alliances and ensure national security. We encourage all Americans to rally behind this cause and support the efforts to build a stronger and more secure future.

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Supporting America’s Naval Readiness: Our Role in the Navy Community

Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations

The United States Navy is a key pillar of national security and a source of pride for Americans. As members of the Navy community, we are committed to strengthening its capabilities and ensuring its readiness to protect the nation’s interests.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, our mission is to inform and inspire readers to support the Navy and its operations. In this article, we will explore the vital role of the Navy in the Indo-Pacific region and how our collective efforts can bolster its effectiveness.

Summary

The article highlights the importance of the United States Navy’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region for ensuring regional stability and security.

Through routine operations and partnerships with allies, the Navy contributes to preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

As members of the Navy community, our support is essential for maintaining the Navy’s readiness to respond to threats and protect American interests.

Key Takeaways:

The United States Navy’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region is crucial for maintaining regional stability and security.Routine operations and partnerships with allies are essential for preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Our collective efforts as members of the Navy community are vital for ensuring the Navy’s readiness to respond to threats and protect American interests.

Conclusion

As Americans, it is our duty to support the United States Navy and its mission to preserve the nation’s interests. By subscribing to Americans for a Stronger Navy, we can stay informed about the Navy’s operations and contribute to its readiness through advocacy and support. Our collective efforts can ensure that the Navy remains a powerful force for protecting American values and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Let us rally together to strengthen America’s naval capabilities and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to national security.

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US Stands with Philippines Against Chinese Harassment in South China Sea

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel is pictured on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands, in the South China Sea, March 29, 2014. REUTERS/Erik De Castro

Introduction

The South China Sea remains a point of contention between the Philippines and China. Recently, the US has issued a warning to China’s Coast Guard to stop harassing Philippine vessels. As a strong advocate for a robust Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy stands with the US in upholding the rules-based international maritime order and supports the Philippines in their efforts to protect their sovereignty.

The Situation in the South China Sea

Last week, the Philippines accused China’s Coast Guard of “aggressive tactics” and “dangerous maneuvers” in the South China Sea. China’s foreign ministry had said that the Philippine vessels had intruded into Chinese waters and made deliberate provocative moves. The Philippines has filed more than 200 diplomatic protests against China since last year.

Chinese Coast Guard’s Provocative and Unsafe Conduct

The US has warned the Chinese Coast Guard to stop harassing Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. The US state department said in a statement: “We call upon Beijing to desist from its provocative and unsafe conduct.” China has angered the Philippines by repeatedly harassing its navy and coast guard patrols and chasing away fishermen in the waters close to Philippine shores but which Beijing claims as its own.

US Stands with the Philippines

The US state department said Washington “stands with our Philippine allies in upholding the rules-based international maritime order.” In Washington, the US and Philippine defence and foreign secretaries met earlier in April to discuss the development of nine Philippine military camps, where American forces have been allowed to stay indefinitely under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. The US is allocating more than $100m to build infrastructure at the sites, where Americans would be stationed.

Building a Strong Navy to Ensure Regional Peace and Stability

Americans for a Stronger Navy supports the US in its efforts to maintain stability and security in the South China Sea. We advocate for a strong Navy to protect American interests and promote peace and stability worldwide. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea demonstrate the need for a strong and capable Navy to ensure regional security and stability. We encourage readers to stay informed about developments in the South China Sea and to support efforts to promote a rules-based international maritime order.