Chinese Drone Flight Over South China Sea Sparks Tension
Summary
A Chinese reconnaissance drone briefly flew over the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea on Saturday, prompting Taiwan's Defence Ministry to label it a "provocative" move. The drone entered Taiwanese airspace for eight minutes at an altitude beyond the range of anti-aircraft weapons. Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, regularly reports Chinese military activity, though drone incursions into Taiwanese airspace are rare. The Pratas Islands, lightly defended by Taiwan, hold a strategic location in the South China Sea.
Full Analysis
A Chinese reconnaissance drone briefly flew over the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands in the South China Sea on Saturday, prompting Taiwan's Defence Ministry to label it a "provocative" move. The drone entered Taiwanese airspace for eight minutes at an altitude beyond the range of anti-aircraft weapons. Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, regularly reports Chinese military activity, though drone incursions into Taiwanese airspace are rare. The Pratas Islands, lightly defended by Taiwan, hold a strategic location in the South China Sea.
Background Context
The South China Sea's strategic importance has been recognized for centuries, serving as a vital trade route connecting East Asia with the rest of the world. European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, exerted influence in the region from the 16th century onwards. However, China's claims to the South China Sea are rooted in its historical interactions and perceptions of sovereignty, particularly the 'nine-dash line,' which emerged in the mid-20th century. This line encompasses a vast area of the sea, including numerous islands and reefs, and is based on China's interpretation of its historical rights. The legal basis and extent of these claims have been contested by other claimant states and international bodies, leading to ongoing disputes and tensions.
Current Developments
In recent years, China has significantly increased its presence and activities in the South China Sea, including the construction of artificial islands and the militarization of these features. This has led to heightened tensions with other claimant states, such as the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia, as well as with the United States, which has conducted freedom of navigation operations in the area. The Permanent Court of Arbitration's 2016 ruling, which rejected China's expansive claims, has been largely ignored by Beijing. Looking ahead, the South China Sea is likely to remain a flashpoint, with continued competition for resources, strategic influence, and maritime control. The development of international law and regional cooperation mechanisms will be crucial in managing these tensions and preventing escalation.
Key Facts
- Chinese drone flew over Pratas Islands
- Flight duration: 8 minutes
- Taiwan calls it 'provocative'
- Pratas Islands controlled by Taiwan
- Location: South China Sea
Practice MCQs
Question 1
Consider the following statements regarding the Pratas Islands (Dongsha Islands):
1. They are administered by Taiwan (Republic of China).
2. They are located in the East China Sea.
3. They are claimed by the People's Republic of China.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statements 1 and 3 are correct. The Pratas Islands are administered by Taiwan and claimed by China. Statement 2 is incorrect as they are located in the South China Sea, not the East China Sea.
Question 2
Which of the following best describes the 'Nine-Dash Line'?
- A maritime boundary agreement between China and ASEAN countries.
- A demarcation line established by the United Nations to resolve territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
- A historical claim by China encompassing a large portion of the South China Sea.
- A series of naval exercises conducted jointly by China and Russia in the South China Sea.
Explanation: The Nine-Dash Line is a historical claim by China encompassing a large portion of the South China Sea, which is disputed by other countries in the region.
Question 3
Consider the following statements:
1. UNCLOS provides a framework for determining maritime zones and rights.
2. China ratified UNCLOS but disputes its application in the South China Sea.
3. The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against China's 'Nine-Dash Line' claim.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: All three statements are correct. UNCLOS provides the framework, China ratified it but disputes its application, and the PCA ruled against the Nine-Dash Line.
Mains Practice Questions
Question 1
Analyze the factors contributing to the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. How does China's increasing assertiveness in the region impact the geopolitical landscape and international law?
Previous Year Questions
PYQ 1 - UPSC Prelims 2023 2023
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the South China Sea?
1. It is a marginal sea of the Western Pacific Ocean.
2. It is claimed in its entirety by China.
3. The Pratas Islands are located in the South China Sea.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 1 and 3 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as the South China Sea is a marginal sea. Statement 3 is correct as the Pratas Islands are located there. Statement 2 is incorrect as other countries also have claims in the South China Sea.
PYQ 2 - UPSC Mains 2023 2023
The recent Chinese drone flight over the Pratas Islands highlights the escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Discuss the strategic importance of the South China Sea and the implications of China's actions for regional stability.
PYQ 3 - SSC CGL 2023 2023
Which country controls the Pratas Islands?
- (a) China
- (b) Vietnam
- (c) Taiwan
- (d) Philippines
Explanation: The Pratas Islands are currently controlled by Taiwan.
PYQ 4 - SSC CHSL 2023 2023
The recent drone incursion over the Pratas Islands lasted for approximately how long?
- (a) 5 minutes
- (b) 8 minutes
- (c) 12 minutes
- (d) 15 minutes
Explanation: The drone incursion lasted for approximately 8 minutes.
PYQ 5 - IBPS PO 2023 2023
Which of the following best describes the action of the Chinese drone over the Pratas Islands?
- (a) Joint military exercise
- (b) Humanitarian aid mission
- (c) Reconnaissance flight
- (d) Commercial cargo delivery
Explanation: The drone was described as a reconnaissance drone, indicating a surveillance or intelligence-gathering mission.
PYQ 6 - SBI PO 2023 2023
What is the primary concern raised by Taiwan regarding the Chinese drone flight?
- (a) Economic impact
- (b) Environmental damage
- (c) Provocative action
- (d) Disruption of air traffic
Explanation: Taiwan's Defence Ministry labelled the drone flight as a "provocative" move.
PYQ 7 - CDS 2023 2023
The Pratas Islands are located in which of the following seas?
- (a) Yellow Sea
- (b) East China Sea
- (c) Philippine Sea
- (d) South China Sea
Explanation: The Pratas Islands are located in the South China Sea.
PYQ 8 - CDS 2023 2023
Which country claims Taiwan as its territory?
- (a) Japan
- (b) South Korea
- (c) Vietnam
- (d) China
Explanation: China claims Taiwan as its territory.