Sabina Shoal, Atolls in Spratly Islands, South China Sea
Sabina Shoal is an atoll in the South China Sea composed of coral reefs and underwater banks that surround shallow lagoons. The eastern sections expose reefs at water level, while the western areas have banks ranging from 3.7 to 8.3 meters deep.
A 2016 international arbitration ruling addressed maritime claims over this region and related waters. This decision shaped the legal framework for territorial disputes in the area.
Multiple nations conduct maritime patrols and ceremonies in these waters, reflecting the complex territorial claims of Southeast Asian countries.
This location lies in waters with significant maritime activity and regular patrols from multiple nations. Visitors should know the area operates under complex jurisdictional conditions that affect access and movement.
This location saw a vessel collision in 2024 that drew international attention from multiple nations. Such incidents highlight the ongoing tensions between maritime forces operating in these contested waters.
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