China's Maritime Dominance: Controlling the South China Sea

China has rapidly expanded its sea power, becoming the world's largest shipowner by tonnage and boasting the largest navy by hull count. The Chinese Navy has outbuilt the US Navy by about 25% over the past decade, and China is projected to continue growing its vessel count while the US fleet size decreases. China's naval expansion extends to submarines and coast guard ships, with plans to have 80 submarines by 2035 and the world's largest coast guard fleet. Additionally, China's commercial fishing fleet has near-global reach, and its commercial ships can be utilized for military purposes. China's expanding maritime capabilities are accompanied by efforts to secure port access around the world.