China and Vietnam Expand Artificial Island Building in South China Sea

China and Vietnam have both accelerated the construction of artificial islands and floating platforms in the South China Sea, intensifying their long-standing territorial disputes. China recently completed a significant artificial island on Antelope Reef in the Paracel Islands, its first major such project since 2017 Source: infobae. Meanwhile, Vietnam has reclaimed 216 hectares in the Spratly Islands over the past year, narrowing the gap with Chinese construction Source: infobae.

Antelope Reef Development

• China's new island on Antelope Reef is described as the largest in the Paracels, built using dredgers that switch off their transponders to conceal operations Source: infobae.
• The island could potentially host airstrips, radar, and missile bunkers, though it alone may not shift the strategic balance Source: infobae.

Vietnam's Land Reclamation

• Vietnam has reclaimed land on submerged reefs in the Spratlys, adding 216 hectares in the last year, according to AMTI Source: infobae.
• In early 2025, Vietnamese activities were nearly matching China's, but new Chinese construction widened the gap again Source: infobae.

Scarborough Shoal Incident

• In May, a Chinese floating platform was detected on Scarborough Shoal (Bajos de Masinloc), disputed with the Philippines Source: elespanol.
• The platform, about 5 meters per side, was equipped with exploration gear and a communications antenna Source: elespanol.
• Philippine officials announced its removal in June but stated the shoal remains part of their territory Source: elespanol. China claimed it was part of routine research and that no state has the right to interfere Source: elespanol.

Strategic Implications

• These activities are seen as part of a broader strategy to control the South China Sea, through which about 20% of global trade passes Source: elespanol.
• The South China Sea holds crucial fishing grounds and potential oil and gas reserves Source: infobae.