Tensions have risen in the South China Sea between Vietnam and China since early May 2014, when the state-owned China National Offshore Oil Corporation deployed the drilling rig Hai Yang Shi You 981 (HYSY 981) in waters claimed by both countries. The oil rig is located about 20 miles from the China-controlled Paracel Islands, which China calls the Xisha Islands. Vietnam is also claiming sovereignty over these islands, which it calls the Hoang Sa Archipelago.
