China is escalating tensions in the South China Sea to test how far the US supports one of its allies, military analyst says

"China is deliberately escalating the situation, with a likely intention to test how far Washington would support Manila," Koh told CNN.

"Last week, the Philippines accused China of repeatedly firing flares at its aircraft over the region... as it conducted a 'Maritime Domain Awareness Flight' in one incident..."

"In June, Chinese coast guard armed with swords and knives attacked Filipino vessels in the contested waters, resulting in injuries and one soldier losing a thumb."

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