Russia to bolster Chinese presence in South China Sea with Su-35 planes in light of tensions

China has been at odds with Southeast Asian nations and the United States following its island construction in the South China Sea region. World leaders have called out the move but Beijing appears unfazed at it is expected to acquire Su-35 planes from Russia to bolster its military presence in the disputed region.

Tensions have been brewing over the South China Sea region and China is at the frontlines. The nation is also on the verge of boosting its military presence in the disputed region, thanks to its deal with Russia. Beijing and Moscow are set to escalate their military weapons. Following a series of negotiations, Russia will be supplying China with 24 Su-35 planes.

This comes on top of concerns that Russia's initiative to "reverse engineer" weapons can speed up China's capacity to become a Russia's top rival in the global arms market. The deal is worth around US$2 billion (AU$2.77 billion), which includes a clause on the transfer of technology as well to Beijing. This can be a catalyst in helping China develop next generation weapons. Geopolitics played a major role in the success of the deal, according to analysts via The Hindu.

The analysts also said that China can benefit from the purchase of the jets because it will allow the country to extend its reach in the South China Sea. It will also allow the Chinese military to do with short runways because takeoffs are easier -- crucial since China's artificial islands may have limited areas. Finally, this gives China the change to acquire important radar and engine technology based on the Russian jets.

China has been keeping a close watch over the United States after it sent warships and jets close to the disputed region. Lately, the US has also deployed a spy plane to Singapore.

"We are paying close attention to how the relevant situation develops, and hope bilateral defence cooperation between the relevant countries is beneficial to regional peace and stability and not the opposite," Reuters quoted China's defence ministry.

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