Since World War II, China has been in land and water disputes in the South and East China Seas with its neighbours; Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei.
The presence of immense hydrocarbon reserves has contributed to the escalation of the conflict.
While few military actions have taken place over the disputed regions, navy vessels colliding with fishermen, marine standoffs, military occupations, and scrambling fighter jets are becoming more common.
May 2014 has seen China rapidly escalate its presence, establishing oil rigs and mobilising military forces in multiple regions. This map shows the progression of these conflicts.
