Topic: Freedom Of Navigation

The U.S. Navy sailed a guided missile destroyer within 12 miles of artificial islands built by China in the South China Sea to challenge Beijing's territorial claims. China expressed "furious" unofficial responses, while the hosts discuss the strategic importance of the shipping lanes and the growing Chinese naval presence.

Senator John McCain questioned Pentagon officials regarding the lack of "freedom of navigation" operations within the 12-mile limit of Chinese-claimed features in the South China Sea. Admiral Harris compared the region's international status to the Gulf of Mexico, asserting that the area does not belong exclusively to China.