Chinese high-tech research ship back in Maldives waters
- In Reports
- 07:27 PM, Apr 26, 2024
- Myind Staff
A Chinese research vessel weighing 4,500 tonnes has returned to Maldivian waters, arriving at the Thilafushi industrial island's harbour after a previous visit two months ago. Despite the government not disclosing the reason for its return, it had previously approved the ship's docking. This follows President Mohamed Muizzu's victory in the general election, where his pro-China stance was evident. With a strong parliamentary majority secured, Muizzu's administration appears more entrenched. The ship's presence, having skirted the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), indicates ongoing activity within or near Maldivian territory since January.
Previously, on February 23, the same vessel had docked at the Thilafushi port, situated approximately 7.5 km west of Male. It entered Maldivian waters on February 22 after spending about a month near the boundary of the Maldives' EEZ. Subsequently, about six days later, it returned to the EEZ boundary.
In February, the Maldivian Foreign Ministry stated that the Xiang Yang Hong 3 was in Maldivian waters for a "port call, for the rotation of its personnel and replenishment" following a diplomatic request from the Chinese government to the Maldivian government. The Foreign Ministry clarified on January 23 that the vessel would not engage in any research activities while in Maldivian waters.
The Maldives' strategic importance is underscored by its proximity to India, with Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep just 70 nautical miles away and the mainland's western coast 300 nautical miles distant. Situated at the crossroads of key commercial sea routes in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the Maldives holds significant strategic value.
In February, local media reports provided insights into the Xiang Yang Hong 03 vessel. Measuring 100 meters in length, it was incorporated into China's State Oceanic Administration (SOA) fleet in 2016, distinguishing itself as China's sole 4,500-tonne vessel. Since 2019, the vessel has been utilised by China for conducting "distant water" and "deep sea" surveys at China's Pilot Ocean Laboratory.
The vessel is versatile and capable of conducting various studies including research on salinity, microbial genetics, underwater mineral exploration, as well as studies on underwater life and environmental conditions. Equipped with data buoys, it can measure ocean currents, waves, and other crucial environmental parameters. These buoys facilitate the transmission of real-time satellite data to the Chinese government, enhancing their access to vital oceanographic information.
Reports on April 26 cited China's State Oceanic Administration (SOA), which oversees the Xiang Yang Hong 03, describing the ship as the most advanced vessel for marine research manufactured in China. According to China, it is a comprehensive research vessel capable of performing multiple tasks. The vessel boasts an impressive endurance of 15,000 nautical miles, enabling it to operate continuously for that distance without requiring assistance.
Interestingly, the same Chinese vessel was observed near the location of the India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral Dosti-16 exercise, which took place in the ocean near Male from February 22 to 25.
Image Source: India Today
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