A new front is opening in the Pacific. The U.S. Coast Guard is moving ships closer to China,
as Washington works to push back against the country's growing maritime influence.
Six fast-response cutters that previously operated in the Middle East
are now being deployed in Asia, including Singapore and the Philippines.
The move on Tuesday is aimed at deterring Beijing from using force around Taiwan
and disputed waters in the South China Sea.
The U.S. cutters are part of a new Coast Guard squadron designed for global deployments.
This marks the first time the smaller vessels are operating from Subic Bay,
a strategic location near the South China Sea. The ships are expected to remain in the region
through at least September, supporting U.S. Pacific operations.
Beijing has expanded its Coast Guard presence in disputed waters,
where its vessels have harassed ships from neighboring countries.
Chinese vessels have confronted Philippine ships using water cannons and other aggressive tactics.
U.S. officials say the cutters can conduct patrols, law enforcement missions,
and maritime security operations with regional allies.
The deployment comes as the U.S. Navy has shifted some resources to support operations in the
Middle East. But the Coast Guard faces its own challenges, including aging ships and the need
for more resources. A roughly $25 billion investment approved by Congress will help
fund new Coast Guard ships and aircraft. The move comes as Washington competes with
Beijing for influence across the Pacific.
