China to extend military reach, build lighthouses in disputed waters

Copies of the annual white paper on China's military strategy are placed on a table for distribution to journalists during a news conference in Beijing, China, May 26, 2015. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

BEIJING (Reuters) - China outlined a strategy to boost its naval reach on Tuesday and held a groundbreaking ceremony for two lighthouses in disputed waters, developments likely to escalate tensions in a region already jittery about Beijing's maritime ambitions.

In a policy document issued by the State Council, the Communist-ruled country's cabinet, China vowed to increase its "open seas protection", switching from air defence to both offence and defence, and criticised neighbours who take "provocative actions" on its reefs and islands.