Special to WorldTribune.com

Bill Gertz, Washington Free Beacon

China’s military buildup on disputed islands in the South China Sea is nearly finished and supports Beijing’s plan to rapidly project power in the region, according to intelligence made public this week.

Director of National Intelligence James Clapper stated in an intelligence analysis for Congress: … ““Once these facilities are completed by the end of 2016 or early 2017, China will have significant capacity to quickly project substantial offensive military power in the region,” he stated.

The intelligence assessment contradicts Chinese government claims that the military activities in the South China Sea are defensive, limited, and not aimed at achieving regional military hegemony. “We assess that China has established the necessary infrastructure to project military capabilities in the South China Sea beyond that which is required for point defense of its outposts,” the assessment says. …

Clapper stated in the letter that the Chinese appear to be preparing to base fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, and coastal anti-ship cruise missiles at its outposts in the South China Sea. Also expected are increased deployments of PLA Navy warships and Chinese coast guard patrol ships. … “China has installed military radars, most likely air-surveillance/early warning radars, at Cuarteron and Fiery Cross reefs and a beacon for aircraft direction at Fiery Cross,” Clapper said, noting that the Chinese are using solar, wind, and traditional power generators on the military outposts. …

The commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, Adm. Harry Harris, told reporters last month that China is aggressively seeking hegemony over the South China Sea using what he called “military bases” on the newly-formed islands.

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  Intel: China’s militarization of South China Sea geared to rapid power projection