Chinese navy and coast guard vessels collide near disputed shoal during chase of Philippine ship

China Coast Guard vessel 3104 damaged, photo courtesy of Philippines Coast Guard, 11 August, 2025
Reuters

A Chinese warship and coast guard vessel collided while attempting to block a Philippine patrol near Scarborough Shoal, damaging both ships in one of the most serious recent incidents in the contested South China Sea.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the collision took place on Monday as Chinese ships sought to intercept the BRP Suluan, which was escorting aid boats to Filipino fishermen near the shoal.

PCG footage showed China Coast Guard vessel CCG 3104 turning sharply across the bow of the People’s Liberation Army Navy ship Hull No. 164, striking it and causing visible damage. The PCG said it offered medical and recovery assistance, but received no reply from Chinese crews.

Beijing confirmed its maritime forces were monitoring and controlling Philippine ships “in accordance with the law,” but did not comment on the collision itself.

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