China’s Asymmetric Tactics in the South China Sea: How the US Can Intervene

In the South China Sea, China is leveraging its military and law enforcement forces to extend its influence and challenge the sovereignty of neighboring nations. This strategy, characterized by subtle but assertive actions, poses significant risks to regional stability.

China’s Major Forces and Tactics

China has three primary forces for asserting control over the South China Sea: the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), and the People’s Armed Force Maritime Militia (PLAFMM). While the PLAN operates more openly, the CCG and PLAFMM are frequently employed to harass and intimidate smaller nations.

These forces’ actions include:

• Violating the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of other nations.
• Harassing vessels exercising freedom of navigation rights.
• Attacking resupply ships heading to remote outpost islands.
• Seizing territory.

The primary targets of these aggressive actions are the Philippines, Vietnam, and Japan, though no nation is entirely safe.

Understanding Asymmetric Tactics

Asymmetric tactics are non-conventional strategies used by countries to achieve their objectives without invoking outright military conflict. Such tactics are often employed by nations that perceive themselves at a military disadvantage. Using less rigid forces such as law-enforcement agencies and plausibly deniable entities, like the Chinese fishing militia, allows these countries to exert influence without risking direct engagement.

In China’s case, these tactics are a means to control the South China Sea without escalating into a wider conflict. The ambiguity of these actions makes them particularly effective, as they stay below the threshold of war.

China’s Calculated Approach

China’s use of asymmetric tactics is underpinned by a desire to avoid a full-scale confrontation. By operating below the threshold of war, China minimizes the risk of drawing in external powers, particularly the United States.

The United States, for its part, generally maintains a cautious presence in these areas, avoiding actions that could provoke a response. This apparent reluctance appears to have emboldened China, leading to increasingly aggressive behavior.

A notable incident occurred recently, with CCG personnel brandishing weapons against Philippine military personnel and damaging their boats. Such incidents underscore the escalating tensions in the region.

A Different Approach with the US

Interestingly, when faced with the United States, China’s actions are considerably more restrained. While they regularly cut off or shadow American naval vessels, their aggression does not extend to near-kinetic tactics such as ramming. Encounters are often described as “professional.”

This difference in behavior reveals China’s tactical approach: they use more aggressive tactics toward weaker neighbors, reserving caution when dealing with the US, the world’s leading naval power.

Iran offers a parallel scenario, where similar asymmetric tactics are employed, but with much less restraint against American vessels. The United States frequently engages in robust responses, setting a clear contrast to Chinese behavior in the South China Sea.

The US Role in the South China Sea

The United States should consider adopting a more robust and proactive military presence in the South China Sea. Rather than remaining hands-off and leaving smaller nations to fend for themselves, the US military should prioritize responding to and being present in areas where confrontations with China occur.

American assets do not necessarily need to be manned or surface vessels. The mere presence of an American-flagged aircraft or vessel can be a strong deterrent. This presence sends a clear message to China that any aggressive actions could invite a significant military response.

Such a strategy would not only signal China’s reckless behavior is unacceptable but also reassure its smaller neighbors that the US stands ready to provide support when needed.

The Broader Implications

If the United States fails to adapt its approach, the situation may reach a point where military conflict becomes inevitable. Nations in the region lack confidence in the US’s willingness to intervene, and China is expanding its influence under this perceived lack of resistance.

A more assertive military presence is essential to prevent China from consolidating its dominance in the Pacific. By demonstrating its willingness to confront Chinese hostility, the United States can maintain balance and stability in the South China Sea.

Conclusion

China’s use of asymmetric tactics in the South China Sea is a strategic approach aimed at exerting control without provoking large-scale conflict. While the United States has a cautious presence, China continues to escalate its behavior against weaker nations.

The United States should adopt a more proactive military stance in the region, placing a stronger emphasis on deterrence and support for allied nations. This approach will help maintain regional stability and prevent a potential escalation that could result in a wider conflict.

By showing strength and resolve, the US can ensure that China’s aggressive tactics are met with a firm and united response.

This analysis reflects the author’s perspective and does not necessarily represent official policy of the United States Air Force Academy, the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.

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