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Satellite images reveal China has resumed large-scale reclamation activities at Antelope Reef in the Paracel Islands of the South China Sea, marking an intensification of activity after about a decade. The images show over 30 dredgers.

Reclamation Activities Spotted at Antelope Reef in South China Sea

Satellite image analysis has revealed evidence of significant reclamation activities conducted by China at Antelope Reef within the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea. This suggests a resumption of China's South China Sea reclamation efforts, which had been suspended for approximately 10 years. Satellite photos, reportedly taken last Monday, show a substantial expansion of Antelope Reef's surface, which was previously mostly submerged.

Numerous Dredgers Identified in Satellite Images

Damien Symon, a researcher at the global intelligence research network 'Intel Lab,' published the satellite images via his social media. The photos captured over 30 vessels, which are presumed to be dredgers. Such a large-scale deployment of vessels suggests that China is proceeding with land expansion in the area for the construction of permanent facilities.

*Source: SCMP China (2026-03-12)*

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