Now China Wants All Subs in the South China Sea to Ask Permission, Surface, Show Flag
The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Columbus (SSN-762) pulls into port at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, May 8, 2014.
By Steve Mollman Quartz
February 21, 2017
Topics
China
Navy
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Liam Kennedy
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Beijing's proposed revisions to maritime law, if adopted, could set up a nuclear naval confrontation with the United States in international waters China claims to own.
Submarines are designed with one primary aim: to travel underwater. But when it comes to foreign vessels operating in the vast waters it claims, China doesn’t much like that idea.
According to state media reports posted last week, Beijing is drafting a revision to the nation’s maritime “traffic safety” law. While in Chinese waters, according to the changes, any foreign submarine would be required to stay surfaced and display its national flag. It would also need to get approval before entering Chinese waters, and report to maritime management authorities. China would reserve the right to bar or expel foreign ships deemed to threaten “traffic safety and order.” Ships entering Chinese waters without approval could be fined more than $70,000.
http://www.defenseone.com/threats/2017/02/beijing-wants-limit-foreign-submarine-operations-near-its-south-china-sea-islands/135582/?oref=d-mostread
