Vietnam expands island building in disputed waters
China still leads the way in land reclamation in the South China Sea.
BANGKOK – Vietnam reclaimed land at a record pace in the Spratly island chain in the disputed South China Sea last year and recently finished new features on the islands, the latest study shows.
However, China still dominated in dredging and creating artificial islands, according to U.S. think tank, Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, or AMTI.
Since June 2024, Vietnam created 641 acres (260 hectares) of new land, bringing the total to just over 3,300 acres (1,335 hectares), nearly three quarters of China’s total. It also built eight new harbors.
Vietnam, China and Taiwan all claim the entire archipelago of more than 100 islands. Parts of the Spratlys are also claimed by Malaysia and the Philippines.
Hanoi finished off landfills on Barque Canada Reef, Discovery Great Reef, Ladd Reef and South Reef last year. Work on Namyit Island and Sand Cay were also part of the military buildup that provided outposts to back up its claims to the island chain.
Last year, Vietnam built an 8,000 foot (244 meter) runway on Barque Canada Reef, allowing most military aircraft to land, triggering protests from China.
It could also build airstrips on Ladd, Pearson and Tennent reefs, according to AMTI, which said Hanoi is likely to add more military features in the months to come. Eight of the 10 newly created features include harbors, allowing its navy to match China’s year-round patrols in the Spratlys.
China already has large runways and military facilities on its “Big Three” islands in the South China Sea – Fiery Cross, Mischief and Subi reefs.
Vietnam has not spoken publicly about its reclamation project other than to say it wanted to protect the reefs and provide typhoon shelters for fishermen.
Edited by Stephen Wright and Taejun Kang.
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