China has dispatched three research ships to the Indian Ocean, a region strategically significant to India, as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance its maritime presence. This deployment underscores China’s intention to extend its influence in waters that India considers within its sphere of control. The ships, identified as the Lan Hai 201, Shen Hai Yi Hao, and Shi Yan 6, were reported to be operating in the Indian Ocean as of November 2024.
India, a crucial security partner of the United States, plays an integral role in countering China’s assertive actions across the Indo-Pacific. Both nations are members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), which also includes Australia and Japan. This strategic alliance seeks to mitigate China’s growing influence in the region.
The significance of these research vessels lies in their ability to support military objectives through civilian activities. The Center for Strategic and International Studies indicated that these ships are part of China’s largest fleet of “dual-use” civilian research vessels globally. They can gather essential maritime data that could aid military missions far from China’s shores.
Chinese maritime analyst Ray Powell from Stanford University reported that the Lan Hai 201, Shen Hai Yi Hao, and Shi Yan 6 have been active in the Indian Ocean since mid-November. The Lan Hai 201 is noted for its capabilities in comprehensive fishery scientific surveys, while the Shen Hai Yi Hao is equipped with a manned submersible to collect deep-sea samples. The Shi Yan 6 specializes in geophysical surveys, providing critical research for China’s maritime strategy.
Tracking data from Powell indicates that the Lan Hai 201 has conducted surveys near India and the Maldives since November 13, while the Shen Hai Yi Hao has been operating around Diego Garcia, a significant U.S. military outpost, since November 10. Meanwhile, the Shi Yan 6 was reported to be heading toward Mauritius after navigating through Indonesian waters.
China has maintained that its scientific research activities at sea comply with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and are intended to enhance global understanding of oceanic conditions. Nevertheless, the precise objectives of these latest missions remain unclear.
As tensions rise over maritime activities, India is bolstering its defense capabilities. The Indian government has declared a no-fly zone for a missile test scheduled to take place in the Bay of Bengal from December 1-4, 2024. This area extends over 1,000 miles from the Indian coastline, reflecting India’s proactive stance in safeguarding its interests.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies noted in January 2024 that China is making extensive efforts to upgrade its navy into a formidable force capable of projecting power beyond its immediate shores. As the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) explores less familiar waters, Beijing aims to enhance its understanding of the maritime environment by examining water conditions, currents, and seafloor characteristics.
In a statement made in February 2024, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, affirmed that China’s scientific research missions are peaceful and aim to contribute to humanity’s scientific comprehension of the oceans. He emphasized that these activities adhere strictly to international law.
As China continues to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean, it has maintained a continuous naval task force in the Gulf of Aden since 2008 to conduct escort missions aimed at combating piracy. This ongoing deployment reflects China’s commitment to securing its maritime interests and enhancing its strategic footprint in the region.
