Full Breakdown
Record Deployment of Chinese Maritime Militia in the South China Sea
2/25/2026, 12:02:50 AM
Overview of Maritime Militia Activity
In 2025, China's maritime militia was deployed in record-high numbers across the South China Sea, according to a report by the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), a research program affiliated with the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. The report indicated that the average daily deployment of militia vessels reached 241, surpassing the previous year's average of 232. This increase marks the highest level of maritime militia activity recorded to date.
Composition and Concentration of Forces
The Chinese maritime militia comprises both professional militia and civilian members of the "Spratly Backbone Fishing Fleet," a state-subsidized group of large fishing vessels. These vessels are primarily concentrated around Mischief Reef and Whitsun Reef, which have become key operational hubs for monitoring tensions in the region, particularly with the Philippines. The report noted that while militia activity was documented at various reefs, the majority of deployments occurred at these two locations.
Seasonal Patterns and Observations
Data collected through satellite imagery revealed distinct seasonal patterns in the deployment of militia vessels. Activity was lowest from January to mid-February, with a notable increase following the Lunar New Year. Peaks in vessel presence were observed in June and late November, consistent with trends from previous years. Mischief Reef, in particular, exhibited significant activity, with multiple peaks exceeding 200 vessels throughout the year.
Official Statements & Responses
The Chinese foreign ministry has consistently denied the involvement of the maritime militia in confrontations in the South China Sea, maintaining that these vessels operate as part of legitimate fishing activities. This official stance contrasts sharply with the findings of the AMTI report, which highlights the militia's strategic role in asserting China's claims in the contested waters.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the increasing presence of China's maritime militia exacerbates tensions in the South China Sea, particularly with neighboring countries like the Philippines. The concentration of militia vessels in disputed areas raises concerns about potential confrontations and the implications for regional security. Observers have noted that the militia's activities could undermine diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving territorial disputes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the AMTI report provides a comprehensive overview of the maritime militia's activities, discrepancies exist regarding the exact nature and implications of these deployments. Some analysts question the effectiveness of the militia in achieving strategic objectives, suggesting that the reliance on civilian fishing fleets may indicate a shift in China's approach to asserting its claims in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
“China’s maritime militia was deployed in “record-high numbers” across the disputed South China Sea in 2025, according to a US think tank report.” — Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative
“The fleets consisted of both professional militia and civilian members of the “ Spratly Backbone Fishing Fleet ”, a state-subsidised maritime militia consisting of hundreds of large fishing vessels with a near-permanent presence in the South China Sea.” — Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative
“Both features followed similar seasonal trajectories, though with moderately higher vessel counts than in 2024.” — Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative
