Beijing warns Manila of ‘powerful’ South China Sea toolbox ready for ‘head-on blow’

Strongly worded PLA Daily article is latest in a series of countermeasures as Scarborough Shoal row flares, including military drills

“We also issue a stern warning to forces seeking to stir up trouble and make waves in the South China Sea: when it comes to safeguarding peace and stability there, the options in China’s toolbox are rich and powerful,” said the article published under the pen name Jun Sheng, or “Voice of the Military”.

“Any malicious attempt to the detriment of China’s sovereignty, security and development interests will be met with a resolute response and a head-on blow.”

The article did not say what other options were in Beijing’s toolbox, but the drills were just part of a range of countermeasures Beijing took at the weekend.