Report: China building new islands in disputed waters

“Where it used to have a few, small concrete platforms, it now has full islands with helipads, airstrips, harbors, and facilities to support large numbers of troops,” said James Hardy, Jane’s Asia Pacific editor, told CNN.

“We can see that this is a methodical, well-planned campaign to create a chain of air and sea capable fortresses across the center of the Spratly Islands chain.”

In November, the publication reported that China was building an “air strip capable” island at least 3,000 meters long on Fiery Cross Reef.

China’s Ministry of Defense didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

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CNN