The United States has deployed six Coast Guard vessels, previously stationed in the Middle East, to Singapore and the Philippines. This move comes as U.S. naval forces concentrate in the Middle East due to escalating tensions with Iran, prompting the Coast Guard's shift to the Western Pacific to counter China's pressure in the South China Sea.
The Wall Street Journal reported on July 14 that "six 154-foot fast response cutters from the U.S. Coast Guard are operating in the Western Pacific, based in Singapore and the Philippines."
These vessels were previously engaged in maritime security and drug and arms interdiction in the Middle East. However, as U.S.-Iran tensions intensified this year, the Coast Guard withdrew these non-missile defense ships from Bahrain and redirected them to the Western Pacific.
The ships will operate from Singapore, receiving command and logistical support, while alternating operations in Subic Bay, Philippines. This deployment has been approved at least until September. It marks the first time the U.S. will operate small fast response cutters from Subic Bay.
Subic Bay, a former U.S. military base, is strategically located near the South China Sea, allowing for rapid access to areas of conflict between China and the Philippines.
The decision to deploy Coast Guard vessels instead of naval ships is linked to China's approach in the region. China has prioritized its Coast Guard over its navy in the South China Sea, employing tactics such as blocking supply and fishing operations of Philippine vessels and using water cannons, creating a situation just short of military conflict.
By deploying the Coast Guard, the U.S. aims to curb Chinese Coast Guard activities while minimizing the risk of escalating military tensions. This strategy also facilitates cooperation with Southeast Asian and Pacific nations on non-military missions such as illegal fishing enforcement and search and rescue operations.
However, the power gap with China remains significant. China continues to expand its Coast Guard capabilities with larger vessels and heavy armament, while also strengthening cooperation with its navy and maritime militia.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.