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Satellite images of Triton Island in the South China Sea have revealed a new structure that experts believe is part of China’s military expansion to support its maritime claims. The images have caused protests from the U.S., Vietnam, and Taiwan.

China claims the Paracel Islands and nearby Spratly Islands as its own maritime territories and has been increasing its military installations in the region. Vietnam and Taiwan also claim these island groups and, along with the U.S., are pushing back against China’s maritime expansion, particularly the construction of a new structure on Triton Island.

Satellite photos taken in August show what appears to be a long runway on Triton Island, whereas the structure was not visible in photos taken in March. Experts have differing opinions on the purpose of the structure, with some suggesting it could be a levee, roadway, or even an airstrip.

Bill Conroy, a senior maritime solutions specialist, believes the structure is a levee to protect the island from tidal waves. Another analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies suggests it could be a levee or raised roadway. Ray Powell, director of SeaLight, believes the structure could serve as both a levee and roadway once completed, making China’s military outpost on Triton Island more sustainable.

If the structure is an airstrip, Hoang Viet, an expert on South China Sea disputes, suggests China could use the island as a refueling station for its aircraft during missions in the region.

Triton Island’s construction is part of China’s permanent island remodeling projects in the South China Sea, which began in 2013. These projects include the construction of seawalls, airfields, and buildings across multiple islands. While China initially claimed the projects were for scientific research, satellite imagery reveals their military nature.

Regardless of the exact purpose of the structure on Triton Island, experts agree that it signifies an expansion of China’s military presence in the Paracel and Spratly island chains.

The United States has expressed opposition to China’s claims in the South China Sea and has called on Beijing to conform to international law. The new addition on Triton Island is likely to provoke Vietnam, being closer to Vietnam than other Southeast Asian countries.

China’s claim to 90% of the South China Sea, a crucial waterway for global shipping, has been a source of tension with neighboring states. Islets, shoals, and atolls in the sea are claimed by China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

The new structure on Triton Island further complicates the already tense situation in the region.

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