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China is reportedly building an airstrip on Triton island in the Paracel group of the South China Sea. The island is claimed by both Vietnam and Taiwan. Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press reveal construction activities similar to those on the Spratly group, including the development of airstrips, docks, and military installations. However, the scale of construction on Triton island appears to be more modest at present.

China asserts its sovereignty over virtually the entire South China Sea, rejecting the claims of other countries. This stance goes against an international ruling that invalidated China’s claims. Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC show construction of the airstrip, which was first observed in early August. The current layout suggests that the runway would be over 600 meters long, capable of accommodating turboprop aircraft and drones, but not fighter jets or bombers.

In addition to the airstrip, the satellite images also capture numerous vehicle tracks, containers, and construction equipment on the island. Triton island, located in the Paracel group, is equidistant from Vietnam’s coast and China’s island province of Hainan.

While the United States maintains a neutral position on the sovereignty claims, it regularly conducts “freedom of navigation operations” near the Chinese-held islands. Triton island was the focus of one such mission in 2018.

China has existing infrastructure on Triton island, including a small harbor, buildings, a helipad, and radar arrays. The island also features two large fields with symbols representing the Chinese flag and the ruling Communist Party. China has refrained from providing specific details about its island construction plans, stating that they are intended to enhance global navigation safety. It denies allegations of militarization in the region, asserting its right to act within its sovereign territory.

In 1974, China seized full control of the Paracels from Vietnam during a naval conflict.

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