Sierra Madre, a Rusting Outpost of Philippine Sovereignty in the South China Sea

An unlikely nautical relic of World War II, the BRP Sierra Madre, sits hard aground on Second Thomas Shoal, an atoll in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. Manned by a handful of Philippine marines, the rusting hulk … Continue reading

China Hacks the Sea Dragon — Secret Plans of Anti-Ship Missile

The Washington Post has reported that Chinese government hackers have broken into the computers of a Navy contractor, stealing more than 600 GB of highly sensitive data related to undersea warfare — including secret plans to develop a supersonic anti-ship missile for use … Continue reading

A Bit of Perspective: Slocum Glider, a Small Research Drone, not a “Naval Vessel”

As we posted yesterday, a Chinese naval vessel seized one of USNS Bowditch’s drone gliders.  Today there are news reports that the Chinese are giving it back.  Unfortunately, in the interim, several news outlets either misinterpreted what transpired, or, at the very least, led with headlines … Continue reading