A collision between a Chinese guided-missile destroyer and a Philippine Coast Guard ship in the South China Sea has left analysts praising the “good fortune” that prevented more severe consequences. The incident occurred on Monday while personnel were distributing aid to Filipino fishermen near the disputed Scarborough Shoal.
According to Commodore Jay Tarriela of the Philippine Coast Guard, a Chinese Coast Guard vessel was chasing his ship, BRP Suluan, at high speed when the two vessels collided. The Chinese destroyer, Guilin, inflicted substantial damage on the China Coast Guard vessel’s forecastle, rendering it unseaworthy.
China has denied confirming a collision and claimed its vessels were protecting their sovereignty claims in the South China Sea. However, analysts say the incident is a “black eye” for China’s military, highlighting the risks of overconfidence and aggressive behavior among Chinese naval personnel.
Experts point to the use of an advanced destroyer like Guilin as “overkill” for law enforcement work, suggesting that Beijing’s emphasis on aggression may have contributed to the incident. The Philippines’ close relationship with the US also raises concerns about the potential for escalation in the disputed waters.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of miscalculation and overconfidence among naval commanders, and highlights the need for greater restraint and caution in the South China Sea disputes.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/11/asia/south-china-sea-china-warship-collision-intl-hnk