The move, if confirmed, would mark the first Chinese missile deployments in the Spratly Islands, where several Asian countries including the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan have rival claims. Chinese officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. There was also no comment from Philippine security officials.

Laude, J., Lee-Brago, P. (2018, May 3). China installs cruise missiles on Phl reef. The Philippine Star, pp. 1, 10.