Warship set for showdown in South China Sea
BRITAIN risks triggering a showdown with Beijing after announcing plans to send our biggest warship to the South China Sea.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon vowed Britain “won’t be constrained by China” from sailing the new HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier through the disputed waters next year.
He said: “We have the right of freedom of navigation – and we will exercise it.”
The move will raise tensions in the disputed waters, where China has constructed islands and military facilities, raising fears that it plans to restrict free movement and extend its strategic reach.
Sir Michael said: “We hope to send a warship to the region next year. We flew RAF Typhoons through the South China Sea last October and we will exercise that right whenever we next have the opportunity.”
Speaking later in Australia, Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said the warship being sent was likely to be the HMS Queen Elizabeth, which is currently undergoing trials in the North Sea.
He said: “We are ready once again to articulate our commitment to international order with money and a military presence.
“That is why one of the first missions of our two vast new aircraft carriers will be to sail through the Straits of Malacca.”
Britain’s move follows similar steps taken by the US and will raise suspicions in Beijing of a co-ordinated action.