Chinese Research Vessel Monitors India’s Missile Test; Second Ship off Indian Shores

Amidst preparations for a significant missile test conducted by India, a Chinese research vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 01, has set sail towards the Indian shores. The ship’s movements have raised eyebrows as it nears the Bay of Bengal, strategically close to the coast of Visakhapatnam, where India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines are believed to be stationed.

Just weeks prior to the test, the advanced Chinese ship’s proximity to key Indian locations, such as the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, has triggered speculation about its intentions.

China, along with countries like the US, Russia, France, and the UK, holds the technology for missiles with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRV), making such maritime activities of interest globally.

Maritime analytics provider Marine Traffic has been tracking the Xiang Yang Hong 01’s journey from its departure in Qingdao, China. Open-source intelligence expert Damien Symon highlighted the vessel’s approach towards Indian waters, adding to the intrigue.

Following India’s issuance of a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) over the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) in preparation for the missile test, the presence of the Chinese research vessel has sparked concerns about its monitoring capabilities.

Similar instances in the past, like the appearance of China’s Yuan Wang 06 before a previous missile test, suggest a pattern of Chinese vessels entering the IOR ahead of significant Indian defense activities.

The Xiang Yang Hong 01’s actions align with reports from US think tanks like the Center for Strategic and International Studies, indicating that Chinese research vessels often serve dual military objectives despite official claims of research purposes only.

As India navigates this delicate situation, the presence of a second Chinese research vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 03, in Maldives, under the authority of President Mohamed Muizzu adds complexity to the regional maritime dynamics.

With geopolitical tensions and technological advancements at play, the monitoring of India’s missile test by Chinese vessels underscores the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean Region and the continuous game of maritime intelligence.