South China Sea

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The PRC’s Drive for Judicial Power at Sea

11.21.2025 Owen Au

Executive Summary: Enhancing “maritime judiciary” is now a priority for building a “strong sea power,” according to the recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan. Beijing...

Publication China Brief Notes

New Documentary Promotes PLA Development

10.01.2025 Emerson Tsui

Executive Summary: A new documentary on the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Gongjian, presents an array of military hardware while showcasing operational competence. Highlighting the latest Fujian-class aircraft...

Publication China Brief Notes

Rigging the Game: PRC Oil Structures Encroach on Taiwan’s Pratas Island

09.02.2025 Andrew S. Erickson

Executive Summary: Beijing’s relentless pressure on Taiwan now includes oil rigs: twelve permanent or semi-permanent structures and dozens of associated ships. The structures, which are...

Publication China Brief

Rules for Thee, but Not for Me

03.18.2025 Peter Mattis

Executive Summary: Beijing’s diplomatic rhetoric advocates upholding international rules and norms, but this diverges sharply from both its words to party officials at home and...

Publication China Brief Notes