China on Wednesday said it may further fortify its man-made islands in the South China Sea depending on threats faced by the outposts.

A Chinese naval official today said that China has the legal right to take whatever measures it deems appropriate on the islands in the South China Sea.

China claims the sea in its entirety. It has built seven islands by piling sand and cement on coral reefs, and equipping some with airfields.

The US accuses China of failing to fulfil a 2015 pledge not to expand development in the area.

China, on the other hand, says the development primarily serves civilian purposes.