Chinese naval activity in WPS fluctuates, research ship spotted near drill area

The number of Chinese military, Coast Guard, and research ships monitored by the Philippine Navy in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) increased from August 6 to 12 but decreased compared to the previous week.

During this period, nine People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships, 13 China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels, and two research ships were recorded, compared to six PLAN ships, 12 CCG vessels, and one research ship in the previous week.

The number of Chinese maritime militia (CMM) vessels decreased from 106 to 68 during the same period.

Chinese ships were observed in various features within the WPS, including Bajo de Masinloc, Ayungin Shoal, Pagasa Islands, Likas Island, Lawak Island, Panata Island, Patag Island, Sabina Shoal, and Iroquois Reef.

Of these vessels, three PLAN vessels and five CCGVs were seen near the drill area during joint military exercises involving the Philippines, United States, Australia, and Canada on August 7 to 8.

China's research vessel Ke Xue San Hao was spotted in Escoda Shoal (Sabina Shoal) and Recto Bank over several days, while CCGV 5303 replaced the massive coast guard vessel 5901 at Sabina Shoal.