China tests troubled waters with $1 billion rig for South China Sea

HONG KONG (Reuters) - China has spent nearly $1 billion on an ultra-deepwater rig that appears intended to explore disputed areas of the South China Sea, one of Asia's most volatile hotspots and where the United States is strengthening ties with Beijing's rival claimants. Related Stories Israel: "all options" open after Iran talks fail Angola police use tear gas, warning shots at veterans' rally