China’s reusable rocket failure, PLA’s growth leaves US ‘vulnerable’: SCMP’s 7 highlights
From Hong Kong’s crowded border at Christmas to jailed ex-Malaysian PM’s request rejected, here are highlights from SCMP’s recent reporting
1. Pentagon says Chinese aircraft carriers, 6th-gen fighters make US ‘vulnerable’
A Pentagon report contends that China’s development of its aircraft carriers, sixth-generation fighters and nuclear arsenal illustrates Beijing’s “historic” growth in military power and has left the US “increasingly vulnerable”.
2. Second reusable rocket recovery failure in a month puts China 10 years behind US
The Long March 12A, China’s first state-owned reusable rocket, made its debut launch on Tuesday morning but the recovery of the first stage was a failure. It marked China’s second failed bid this month to return an orbital-class booster to Earth, a feat that has so far only been achieved by the United States.
3. China, Russia clash with US at UN over Venezuela oil seizures and naval pressure
China accused the United States at the United Nations on Tuesday of violating international law and destabilising the Caribbean region, as Washington defended its seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers and vowed to intensify pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government.