The conflict in the South China Sea is likely to heat up. Although Vietnam is trying to disproof the information, saying that it is inaccurate, it has been reported that they recently discretely transported new mobile rocket launchers to the Spartly Islands. It is considered to be one of the bravest military moves on the side of Vietnam in the past few decades, and one that will doubtlessly irritate China. Earlier in July Deputy Defense Minister, Senior Lieutenant-General Nguyen Chi Vinh, has told Reuters that Vietnam does not have such launchers or weapons in the Spartly Islands, but also warned that the government will not retreat from such actions if necessary. 

Mr Vinh said that it is a legitimate right of Vietnam to militarize any given part of its territory, do they find it appropriate. It is unlikely, however, that China is going to interpret this move as a sign of self-defence – rather a provocation. Hanoi’s decision comes at a particularly fateful time, a month after China’s loss in a legal case against Philippines over disputed reefs and atolls. To China this was supposed to be a signal from the international community to scale down its military activity in the area. Hanoi doesn’t believe yet that the ruling will quieten China. They expect further tensions, for which they are preparing. Carl Thayer form the Australian Defence Force Academy, said that the deployment showed the seriousness of Vietnam's determination to militarily deter China as far as possible.

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