(UPDATE) A LARGE-SCALE presence of Chinese vessels, including an aircraft carrier, was observed near Pag-asa (Thitu) Island, a key Philippine-held territory in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

This development, reported on Wednesday by retired US Air Force colonel Ray Powell, director of SeaLight, a maritime transparency project, marks a significant escalation in the disputed waters.

Register to read this story and more for free.

Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience.

Continue

OR

See our subscription options.

Already have an account? Log in here