Key facts
- China's maritime militia is often described as operating in a gray zone between civilian and military roles.
- The militia's activities could allow China to assert its claims in the South China Sea without direct military confrontation.
The potential use of China's maritime militia as a backup force in the South China Sea raises significant geopolitical questions. This militia, often described as operating in a gray zone between civilian and military roles, could enable China to assert its territorial claims in the disputed waters without resorting to direct military engagement. The concept of a maritime militia allows for plausible deniability while still projecting power and influence in the region.