In a direct challenge to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the United Kingdom is sending warships to sail through the South China Sea and will permanently deploy ships to the disputed region.

The UK Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, has revealed that the British Royal Navy will sail an aircraft carrier task force through disputed international waters, despite outrage from Beijing.

Wallace confirmed that HMS Queen Elizabeth and her escort fleet will transit international waters claimed by China next month.

Britain had a “duty” to insist on freedom of navigation, Wallace noted. Read more from Neon Nettle.