U.S. monitoring Chinese activity in South China Sea around disputed shoal

U.S. intelligence agencies are closely observing heightened Chinese activity around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, amid growing concerns that Beijing might be paving the way for a more permanent presence in the strategically vital area.

Analysts are scrutinizing recent Chinese maritime operations near the uninhabited atoll, located approximately 140 miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon. U.S. officials, speaking anonymously, indicated that China has installed what it describes as a "scientific structure" on the reef. This move has angered the Philippines, a treaty ally of the United States, and prompted diplomatic engagement from Washington.

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Analysts are scrutinizing a series of recent Chinese maritime operations near Scarborough Shoal, an uninhabited but strategically located atoll roughly 140 miles west of the Philippine island of Luzon, according to U.S. officials familiar with the intelligence who spoke to CBS News under condition of anonymity to discuss national security issues.

The People's Liberation Army claims the structure is not military, though Chinese officials have not entirely ruled out potential use by the PLA. The Scarborough Shoal, known as Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines and Huangyan Dao in China, lies within Manila's exclusive economic zone. However, China has maintained a near-constant presence since asserting de facto control in a 2012 standoff.

Philippine authorities recently disclosed the presence of a floating platform, measuring 6-by-6 meters, equipped with what appeared to be an antenna. Aerial surveillance and monitoring by the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed the platform's operation within the shoal. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs has stated that appropriate diplomatic action has been taken with China regarding the "illegal presence" of this structure, reflecting shared concerns with U.S. officials about China's incremental efforts to consolidate control over disputed features in the South China Sea.

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The Department of Foreign Affairs has already undertaken appropriate diplomatic action with the government of the People's Republic of China in connection with the illegal presence of this floating structure.