The East China Sea is an arm of the Pacific Ocean and covers an area of roughly 770,000 square kilometers (300,000 sq mi).
[6] There are disputes between the China] (PRC), Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea over the extent of their respective exclusive economic zones (EEZ).
[9] China proposed the application of UNCLOS, considering the natural prolongation of its continental shelf, advocating that the EEZ extends as far as the Okinawa Trough.
[15] Japan has objected to PRC development of natural gas resources in the East China Sea near the area where the two countries Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) claims overlap.
The specific development in dispute is the PRC's drilling in the Chunxiao gas field, which is located in undisputed areas on China's side, three or four miles (6 km) west of the median line proposed by Japan.
[20] US Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump have given priority to US naval operations, under the US Indo-Pacific Command, to expand its sphere of influence in the Pacific Ocean, to counter China's growing strength, and to be ready for any unforeseen challenges in the future.
The Chinese Navy's activities in the area impact the naval strategies of neighboring countries and shape maritime cooperation initiatives, contributing to wider regional security dynamics.
Moreover, the involvement of the Chinese Navy highlights the intricate relationship among maritime security, territorial conflicts, and competition among major powers in the Asia-Pacific area.
The Maritime Self-Defense Force of Japan (MSDF) is highly important in the East China Sea, particularly in relation to the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands conflict.
Japan has improved its abilities at sea by increasing naval patrols and surveillance in order to protect its territorial rights and monitor activities in the region.
The tensions over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands impact Taiwan's security outlook and regional stability, leading to a need for close monitoring of maritime activities and continued diplomatic communication with relevant parties.
Even though Taiwan's involvement in the East China Sea conflict is limited, its position demonstrates its dedication to defending its territorial rights and promoting maritime safety in the Asia-Pacific area.