FONOPs in the South China Sea

FONOPs, or Freedom of Navigation Operations, are military patrols conducted by the United States to assert that international maritime laws allow free passage through key areas like the South China Sea. These operations challenge China's territorial claims over certain islands and waters, ensuring open navigation for all countries. By doing so, the U.S. aims to uphold international law, promote regional stability, and prevent unilateral territorial expansion that could threaten freedom of movement for commercial ships and military vessels alike.