China’s substantial military investments in the South China Sea from 2003 to 2022.
The Greater Yulin Naval Base on Hainan Island received around $15 billion over 20 years, while significant construction also took place on nearby island groups.
The Spratly and Paracel Islands, strategically located, saw billions invested in key reefs:
— Mischief Reef: $3.6 billion
— Subi Reef: $3.5 billion
— Fiery Cross Reef: $3.1 billion
— Woody Island (Paracels): $2.7 billion