The U.S. Pacific Fleet Commander has warned of a possible arms race in the disputed South China Sea which could engulf the region, as nations become increasingly tempted to use military force to settle territorial spats instead of international law. Commander Admiral Scott Swift urged nations, like China, to seek arbitration to settle maritime disputes. By resorting to military strength to impose territorial claims, nations, including China, risked sparking a military arms race that could engulf the region, he said.

US Navy commander warns of possible South China Sea arms race. (2015, December 16). Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 16.