The Washington Post reports that China plans to develop floating nuclear plants that could power military facilities in the South China Sea.
The news agency cited the 26th Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Adm John Aquilino.
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He said Chinese state media announced Beijing’s intent to use this project to bolster control of the South China Sea.
The purpose of the floating nuclear plants
China has been increasingly asserting itself in waters near Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. In response, these countries and their allies have been more vigilant than ever in spotting potential threats.
The most recent is China’s alleged floating nuclear power reactors, which have been developing since 2010.
In 2016, the country’s Global Times Online article stated the government plans to deploy 20 reactors in the South China Sea.
The state-run outlet stated the nuclear plants will support commercial development, oil exploration, and seawater desalination.
However, the same report boasted of military applications:
“Each South China Sea island and reef, paired with a floating nuclear-powered platform [is essentially] a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.”
“[It is] equipped with combat aircraft and missile systems. Their military advantage far outweighs that of a US carrier fleet coming from afar.”
China’s Development Research Center of the State Council says the nuclear plants will “ensure the smooth conduct of military exercise.”
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Floating them on the South China Sea solves two problems. First, the surrounding water provides natural and abundant cooling for the power plants.
Second, their generated energy output could power desalination to provide clean, potable water to nearby installations and personnel.
“China’s intended use of floating nuclear power plants has potential impacts on all nations in the region,” said Aquilino.”
Thomas Shugart, an adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, said these Chinese facilities “would amount to a doubling down” on China’s occupation of its artificial islands.