China is expanding its influence across East Asia through what experts describe as "gray zone" tactics: actions that fall between peace and conflict.

In this interview, SeaLight Foundation Executive Director Ray Powell explains how China uses coast guard patrols, maritime militia activity, artificial islands and sovereignty missions to strengthen its claims in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. He warns that challenges to commercial vessels and increased activity beyond the First Island Chain are raising security concerns for Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines, while regional partners deepen defense cooperation in response.