Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

China's Maritime Militia Hits Record 241 Vessels Daily

2/24/2026

42 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, China's maritime militia operated at record levels in the South China Sea, averaging 241 vessels daily, up from 232 in 2024, per the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI).
The militia concentrated activities at Mischief and Whitsun reefs.
Tracking these vessels remains challenging due to detection limits.
Data show peaks in spring and late fall, with Mischief Reef serving as a monitoring hub amid tensions with the Philippines.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 2025, China's maritime militia operated at record levels in the South China Sea, averaging 241 vessels daily, up from 232 in 2024, per the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI).
The militia concentrated activities at Mischief and Whitsun reefs.
Tracking these vessels remains challenging due to detection limits.
Data show peaks in spring and late fall, with Mischief Reef serving as a monitoring hub amid tensions with the Philippines.