More Signs That China's Artificial Islands In The South China Sea Are To Be Military Bases

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Daily Mail: China 'HAS put weapons on its new artificial islands' despite army previously playing down controversial construction in middle of the sea as 'similar to building a road'

* China has set up weapons on its artificial islands in the South China Sea
* The new development is seen as China trying to solidify its military power
* It will see increased tensions and sparked concerns with military officials
* Australian navy may start conducting more patrols in show of disapproval

Tensions over the South China Sea are set to escalate after it was reported China has set up weapons on its artificial islands that are still being constructed in the much-disputed region.

The Asian superpower and the United States have locked horns over the area, with Washington most recently warning Beijing not to challenge the U.S. Navy operating in the South China Sea saying 'nobody in their right mind is going to try'.

WNU Editor: Christopher Helman (Forbes) analysis is correct that these islands are being constructed to project Chinese military power .... Whatever Is Behind China's Spratly Island Showdown, It Isn't Drilling For Oil (Christopher Helman, Forbes).

More News On Reports That China's Artificial Islands In The South China Sea Are To Be Military Bases

China puts weapons on its new artificial islands -- The Age
China moves weapons to new artificial islands: reports -- News.com.au
China moves weapons onto its new artificial islands: report -- 9News
Tensions rising in the South China Sea -- Sky News

Update: The White House has just announced that the South China Sea is "critical" to U.S. national security .... South China Sea critical to US national security: White House (Economic Times/PTI).