ADIZ will not follow Chinese runway in South China Sea

Abstract

Subject A potential Chinese ADIZ in the South China Sea. Significance Satellite images taken June 28 show that China has nearly completed construction of a 3-kilometre airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef in the disputed Spratly islands. US and Philippine officials say China could soon base fighter jets on the island for enforcing an air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in the South China Sea, like the one Beijing declared, with much controversy, over the East China Sea in November 2013. Impacts China is unlikely to declare an ADIZ over territory under the actual control of other states. An ADIZ that covers only part of the South China Sea would be more practicable, but would highlight the limitations of China's capabilities. Declaring an ADIZ would increase the involvement of non-claimant states, especially the United States, an outcome China wants to avoid.