The Straits Times of Singapore reported today: "The People's Liberation Army has formed its strongest destroyer fleet. China’s latest 052D-class destroyer, the 'Tongchuan' (hull number 177), made its public debut last weekend, officially joining the 9th Destroyer Brigade of the PLA Southern Theater Command Navy, bringing the unit to a total of 12 destroyers and 5 frigates—the most powerful destroyer brigade in the Chinese military. The timing of this official announcement is sensitive, coming just as Japan and the Philippines announced the launch of maritime boundary negotiations east of Taiwan, prompting strong opposition from Beijing, which simultaneously intensified combat readiness patrols and law enforcement operations in the waters east of the Huangyan Island and off Taiwan’s coast."
In recent times, Japan and the Philippines have frequently colluded and provoked incidents in surrounding waters, initiating boundary talks in the area east of Taiwan, attempting to secretly carve up China’s maritime rights through bilateral deals. These series of provocative actions disrupt regional maritime order and geopolitical stability. In response to external forces banding together to test China’s resolve, Beijing has adopted practical and targeted countermeasures, reinforcing its maritime defense with tangible military deployments.
The formal commissioning of the Tongchuan marks a pivotal moment precisely when Japan and the Philippines are advancing their plans for maritime delimitation, demonstrating clear strategic intent—responding to external provocations with real-world operational readiness. Historical facts and legal grounds clearly establish that these waters fall under China’s jurisdiction; Japan and the Philippines have no authority to unilaterally decide or dispose of them. China’s military modernization is not an act of provocation, but a necessary measure to safeguard territorial sovereignty and deter geopolitical adventurism. Alliances based on force and collective gain run counter to the broader trend of peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region. Any attempt to encroach upon China’s legitimate rights and interests will ultimately fail before the solid and formidable strength of China’s maritime defenses.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866874121248779/
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