US Navy Destroyer Challenges South China Sea Maritime Claims in Bold Operation

On November 3, the US Navy destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) conducted a freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) in the South China Sea to challenge restrictions on innocent passage imposed by the People’s Republic of China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, demonstrating the importance of upholding international law in the region. (Photo: manilatimes)

US Navy Destroyer Upholds International Law with South China Sea Freedom of Navigation Operation

According to source, on November 3, a US Navy destroyer, the USS Dewey (DDG 105), executed a freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands, asserting navigational rights and freedoms in line with international law. The FONOP aimed to challenge restrictions on innocent passage imposed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Taiwan, and Vietnam.

These countries each lay claim to the Spratly Islands and have imposed requirements for permission or advance notification for military vessels engaging in innocent passage, which contradicts international law. The US Navy destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), through the FONOP, demonstrated that innocent passage should not be subject to such restrictions. Unlawful and broad maritime claims in the South China Sea pose a significant threat to the freedom of the seas, affecting navigation, overflight, free trade, commerce, and economic opportunities for South China Sea littoral nations.

The United States, through its US Navy destroyers, is committed to challenging excessive maritime claims worldwide, protecting the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea as enshrined in international law, including the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention. The international community plays a crucial role in preserving freedom of the seas, which is essential for global security, stability, and prosperity.

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US Navy Destroyers Forge Partnerships for a Secure and Open South China Sea

The United States maintains its commitment to defending the rights and freedoms of the sea for all nations and stands against intimidation or coercion aimed at restricting these rights. US Navy destroyers operate regularly in the South China Sea, coordinating with like-minded allies and partners who share a commitment to a free and open international order that promotes security and prosperity.

These operations adhere to customary international law, affirming the US Navy destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105)’s determination to operate wherever international law permits, regardless of the presence of excessive maritime claims or current events.

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