China is developing a satellite system that will allow it to closely watch the South China Sea, the China News Service reported, helping it to consolidate control over the disputed waters. The first of 10 satellites is expected to be launched in the second half of 2019, China News said, citing the Sanya Institute of Remote Sensing, which is heading the project with sponsorship from the government of Hainan, China’s southernmost island province. Cameras and identification technology on the satellites will allow China to monitor ships sailing in the waters, the news agency reported. Plans to develop the system were announced in December last year.

Beijng developing satellites for watching South China Sea traffic. (2018, August 22). Manila Bulletin, B-4.