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China is reportedly constructing a runway on Triton island, a disputed territory in the South China Sea. Satellite imagery from Planet Labs PBC shows the visible progress of the airstrip, which was first detected in early August. Triton island is part of the Paracel group, an archipelago that is claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam.

The construction on Triton island resembles similar developments in the Spratly cluster of islands, located to the east of Paracel. However, the current construction appears to be less substantial. The runway is expected to exceed 600 metres in length, allowing for the use of smaller aircraft and drones, but not fighter jets or bombers. Additionally, vehicle tracks along with containers and construction equipment can be seen across the island.

China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea have long been a subject of dispute. China asserts its control over a large portion of the region, challenging the claims of other nations including the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan, and Vietnam. China has refused to accept a 2016 ruling that dismissed its claim to the contested waters. The area is known for its abundant fishing grounds, oil and gas deposits, and its importance as a major trade route.

Triton island is equidistant from the coasts of Vietnam and China’s island province of Hainan. China has maintained its presence on Triton island for years, with a small harbour, a helipad, and some buildings. The island also features two fields bearing the star of the Chinese flag and the hammer and sickle symbol of the ruling Communist Party.

The United States does not take sides in territorial disputes but regularly conducts “freedom of navigation operations” near the Chinese-held islands, including Triton island. Japan, despite not having a territorial claim in the region, also sends ships and military assistance to other claimant nations.

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