• Collisions between Chinese naval vessels are intensifying tensions in the South China Sea.
• The US Navy destroyer USS Higgins was warned off by China after entering disputed waters.
• Experts predict China will enhance coordination between its navy and coastguard following recent incidents.

Recent incidents in the South China Sea are expected to escalate tensions, particularly after a collision between two Chinese vessels. Analysts suggest that China may respond by increasing its naval presence in the contested region. The collision occurred near Scarborough Shoal, a disputed area claimed by both China and the Philippines. This incident comes amidst ongoing maritime confrontations, raising concerns over China's maritime strategy, according to SCMP.

Simultaneously, tensions intensified when the USS Higgins destroyer entered the disputed waters near Scarborough Shoal. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) stated that this movement violated China's territorial waters, mandating the deployment of naval forces to warn and expel the US vessel. In this context, Captain He Tiecheng emphasized that the US military's actions undermined peace and stability in the region, according to AA and TRT Global.

In light of the recent collision, military analysts suggest a renewed focus on the coordination between the Chinese navy and coastguard. Observers note that the incident revealed flaws in how these two forces operate together and emphasized the need for structured training to avoid future mishaps. "Undoubtedly, this is not an isolated case, and there's pressure on China to improve its maritime operational tactics," said Collin Koh, a senior analyst, reinforcing the need for enhanced cooperation, according to SCMP.

Following the collision, the Philippines also reported an incident where a Chinese aircraft dangerously intercepted a Philippine patrol plane, highlighting the continuous risks associated with military engagements in the region. The Philippine Coast Guard flagged this interception as a significant safety concern, which has elevated tensions further, as both China and the Philippines continue to contest territorial claims, according to AA and TRT Global.

This cycle of incidents, including the severe damage to a Chinese coast guard vessel during the collision, serves as a critical juncture for Beijing to reassess its maritime strategies. Experts argue that China may need to invest in the capabilities of its coastguard fleet to prevent future occurrences, including the possible deployment of faster vessels or improved operational protocols, ensuring better safety and efficiency in maritime governance, according to SCMP.