Analyzing China’s hybrid warfare methods in the South China Sea dispute

China’s hybrid warfare strategy in the South China Sea combines disinformation, salami slice tactics, and gray zone activities to assert territorial claims and expand influence. Disinformation shapes international perceptions to support China’s narrative, salami slice tactics enable incremental territorial gains without triggering major military responses, and gray zone actions using coast guard, naval forces, and maritime militia exert control below the threshold of open warfare. These coordinated methods illustrate China’s multifaceted approach to regional dominance.