China pushes for dual-use port access in friendly states, enabling rotational naval presence without establishing a permanent military footprint

China supports infrastructure development while securing limited logistics and resupply access across key regional locations

China normalises maritime militia presence under the guise of fishing activity across regional fisheries zones

China expands defence, Coast Guard and policing cooperation, increasing its security engagement footprint across the region

China increases naval transits and presence operations to establish familiarity and signal growing regional reach

China develops access into a semi-permanent sustainment hub, enabling more regular and longer-duration deployments

China expands ISR and surveillance capabilities across key sea lanes, improving maritime domain awareness

China coordinates maritime militia and fishing fleets to apply pressure in contested zones and reinforce its presence

China deepens its security footprint, expanding training and advisory roles to strengthen influence over local institutions

China maintains a more regular naval presence near regional sea lanes, supporting sustained operations

China fast-tracks port access agreements across multiple states, rapidly expanding options for naval access and sustainment

China seeks to accelerate logistics and infrastructure arrangements.

China rapidly expands maritime militia and Coast Guard activity, increasing pressure across fisheries and maritime zones

China intensifies security engagement, pressing partners to accept expanded defence and policing cooperation

China increases naval deployments and port visits, demonstrating persistent presence and testing regional responses