Freedom of Navigation Operations as a Tool of the U.S.’ South China Sea Policy

Abstract

The article analyzes U.S. policy on the conflict in the South China Sea. It focuses on particularities of Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) conducted by the U.S. Navy in the contested waters. Political and legal basis of FONOPs, specifics of their undertaking in the South China Sea in recent years, including the first steps of the new presidential administration of Joe Biden, are analyzed in detail. It has been proven that in addition to directly challenging illegal Chinese claims, these operations in a way became a tool for containing China in the SCS and projecting American military power in the region.