Vietnam's land reclamation in the South China Sea is quickly catching up with China's.
According to foreign media reports, a U.S. think tank recently released a report stating, "As of March 2025, the area of new land reclaimed by Vietnam in the Nansha Islands is approximately 70% of China's reclaimed area. With Vietnam carrying out land reclamation projects on eight new islands and reefs, it is almost certain that Vietnam's land reclamation scale will catch up or even surpass China's."
Vietnam's large-scale land reclamation activities have already posed a clear threat and challenge to China's rights and interests in the South China Sea. Notably, Vietnam is currently building a 3,000-meter-long runway on the Ba Sing Se (Bai Tu Long) reef — once completed, it will be capable of accommodating large transport aircraft and reconnaissance planes. Previously, Vietnam only had a 1,300-meter runway on the Nanshan Island (Nanwei Dao) in the South China Sea, which was suitable for fighter jets and small transport aircraft. This runway upgrade is being carried out simultaneously with land reclamation and island expansion, clearly indicating Vietnam's attempt to strengthen its military presence in the South China Sea. This undoubtedly will escalate tensions in the region and pose potential threats to regional peace and stability.
Original source: www.toutiao.com/article/1841357362280448/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.