Published: 3rd May, 2024
Context
Recent tensions in the South China Sea have drawn attention due to longstanding territorial disputes involving countries like China, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brunei Darussalam, with Sierra Madre, a World War II-era ship, playing a significant role in the region's geopolitical dynamics.
What is the Sierra Madre?
- Constructed During World War II: The Sierra Madre, a 100 ft-long ship, was built in the US during World War II (1939-45) and commissioned in 1944 as a landing ship.
- Deployment to Vietnam: It was later deployed to Vietnam during the US involvement in the Vietnam War (1954-75).
- Transfer to the Philippines: In 1976, the ship was transferred to the Philippines, a US ally, where it served various purposes.
- Current Situation:
- Position at Second Thomas Shoal: In 1999, the ship was deliberately grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal, part of the largely uninhabited Spratly Islands.
- Philippines' Rejection of Removal: China has demanded the removal of the ship, but the Philippines has refused, fearing it would weaken its claims over the islands and allow Chinese presence to establish.
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