Deutsche Welle reported that in addition to conventional military forces, China has employed low profile, unarmed fisherfolk or 'Maritime Militia' that play significant role in advancing China’s claim over South China Sea.

Medias have quoted Chinese government officials as saying the ‘Maritime Militia’ could play a different role once China has complete control over South China Sea.

The research team at ANBOUND Consulting, however, is of the view that the Maritime Militia should continue to plays an active role in South China Sea dispute.

Since fishermen are civilians, their presence in the disputed water would not attract as much attention as the military forces.

It is considered a normal economic activity for the fishermen to carry out fishing activities in the disputed water, this helps China’s claim by creating facts on the ground.

Therefore, even if in the future, China’s navy manages to assert bigger control over the South China Sea, the role of the Maritime Militia should be continued.