Chinese missile boat chase at Half Moon Shoal sparks new South China Sea flashpoint fears

Strategically located about 60 nautical miles (111km) off Palawan Island, Half Moon Shoal could become another source of tensions, with analysts warning of its potential as a military airbase.

The Philippine vessels, BRP Datu Romapenet and BRP Taradipit, were en route to deliver aid and supplies to local fishermen when they were shadowed by the Chinese missile boats.

Philippine authorities reported that one of the Chinese vessels aimed a high-intensity laser at the Cessna, an act described by National Maritime Council spokesman Alexander Lopez as a serious threat to the safety of the Filipino pilots.