China pushes for dual-use port access in friendly states, enabling rotational naval presence without establishing a permanent military footprint.

China supports infrastructure development while securing limited logistics and resupply access across key regional locations.

China normalises maritime militia presence under the guise of fishing activity across regional fisheries zones.

China expands defence, Coast Guard and policing cooperation, increasing its security engagement footprint across the region.

China increases naval transits and presence operations to establish familiarity and signal growing regional reach.

China develops access into a semi-permanent sustainment hub, enabling more regular and longer-duration deployments.

China expands ISR and surveillance capabilities across key sea lanes, improving maritime domain awareness.

China coordinates maritime militia and fishing fleets to apply pressure in contested zones and reinforce its presence.

China deepens its security footprint, expanding training and advisory roles to strengthen influence over local institutions.

China maintains a more regular naval presence near regional sea lanes, supporting sustained operations.

China fast-tracks port access agreements across multiple states, rapidly expanding options for naval access and sustainment.

China seeks to accelerate logistics and infrastructure arrangements.

China rapidly expands maritime militia and Coast Guard activity, increasing pressure across fisheries and maritime zones.

China intensifies security engagement, pressing partners to accept expanded defence and policing cooperation.

China increases naval deployments and port visits, demonstrating persistent presence and testing regional responses.