US commander raises alarm on China’s Pacific military expansion
US Pacific Commander Gen. Flynn warns of China’s escalating military capabilities in the region, citing recent incidents in the South China Sea
In a press conference held in Tokyo, Gen. Charles Flynn, the commander of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), expressed concerns over China’s “increased military capacities” across the region.
Flynn highlighted China’s regional expansion of capabilities, stating, “The Chinese military has been steadily increasing its capacities. It is currently embarking on a reckless path of expansion and use of military assets.”
Referring to the incident between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea in March, Flynn underscored the concerns over China’s “growing military and stealth capacities” in the region. He condemned the aggressive actions, particularly the use of pressured water by Chinese coast guard vessels causing injuries to Filipino ship crew in the disputed waters.
Labeling the stance as “aggressive,” Flynn emphasized, “Aggressive actions across the region, such as those near the shores of the Philippines, clearly demonstrate China’s irresponsible behavior.”
Flynn reiterated the commitment to strengthen relationships with “US allies” like Japan, the Philippines, and Australia through joint training and exercises, aiming to restrain China’s “provocative actions.”
On March 23, the Philippines reported that Chinese vessels sprayed pressured water on its coast guard vessels conducting routine replenishment near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea, where the grounded warship “BRP Sierra Madre” is stationed.
While the extent of damage to the vessel was indicated, it was reported that another coast guard vessel accompanying it was also obstructed.
China’s statement claimed that the Filipino vessels entered the area despite repeated warnings and route controls, prompting China to carry out legal controls, obstruction, and evacuation interventions.
