The Indian Ocean, a pivotal maritime corridor, has recently become a focal point of geopolitical interest, particularly with the arrival of Chinese research vessels in the region. The presence of these ships, such as the Xiang Yang Hong 03, has raised eyebrows and security concerns among Indian Ocean littoral states, especially India.
The Xiang Yang Hong 03’s journey began from the port of Sanya in China’s southern Hainan province on January 16, embarking on a mission that would take it through some of the world’s most geopolitically sensitive waters. The vessel’s activities have been closely monitored by international observers, given the strategic significance of its route. Before reaching the Maldives, the ship was intercepted by the Indonesian Coast Guard in the Sunda Strait area on January 11, an event that underscored the contentious nature of its voyage.
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Despite being a non-military vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 03 has been under scrutiny for its potential dual-use capabilities, particularly for mapping the seabed, which could be instrumental for submarine warfare. The term ‘dual-use’ implies that the data collected can serve both civilian and military purposes.
This has led to heightened vigilance among regional players, with India being particularly watchful of the ship’s operations near its maritime borders. The vessel’s presence in the Indian Ocean coincides with the Milan-24 trilateral naval exercise involving Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships, further complicating the regional security matrix.
Strategic Concerns for India
India’s strategic concerns regarding the presence of Chinese vessels in the Indian Ocean are multifaceted and extend beyond the immediate vicinity of its borders. The Indian Navy has been keeping a ‘very close watch’ on the large presence of Chinese vessels in the region, including warships, research vessels, and fishing boats. The presence of these vessels is seen as a concern to India.
The Indian Navy’s vigilance is a response to the potential for these vessels to engage in activities such as electronic signal tracking and collection, which could compromise India’s security. The Navy deploys aircraft, UAVs, ships, and submarines to monitor these vessels, especially when they operate close to India’s areas of interest.
Furthermore, India’s concerns are heightened by the fact that Chinese research vessels have capabilities that could be used for military purposes, such as mapping the ocean floor, which is crucial for submarine operations. This capability could provide the Chinese Navy with strategic advantages in the region. India’s apprehensions are not unfounded, as there have been instances where Chinese vessels’ presence has directly impacted India’s defense activities.
China’s Stance and International Response
China’s stance on its research activities in the Indian Ocean has been consistent, emphasizing the peaceful and scientific nature of these missions. Chinese officials have repeatedly stated that their marine scientific research is in full compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They urge other nations to view these activities objectively and refrain from speculation.
The international response to China’s maritime activities in the Indian Ocean has been varied. The United States and its allies have expressed concern over China’s growing naval capabilities and the potential military applications of its research activities. Reports from think tanks like CSIS have analyzed China’s scientific research in the Indian Ocean and discussed the military implications of such efforts.
Furthermore, the presence of Chinese research vessels has prompted responses from regional powers. India, for instance, has been closely monitoring these vessels, especially when they operate near its areas of national interest.
Other countries in the region, such as Sri Lanka, have found themselves in complex situations due to the geopolitical implications of hosting Chinese vessels. Sri Lankan officials have acknowledged the pressures from India and other parties to halt the arrival of Chinese research vessels, highlighting the delicate balance they must maintain in their international relations.
Regional Dynamics and the Role of the Maldives
The Maldives’ strategic position in the Indian Ocean cannot be overstated, as it sits along key shipping lanes that are vital for global commerce and energy transportation. The archipelago’s role in regional security is further highlighted by its participation in various security dialogues, such as the Colombo Security Conclave and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, which aim to foster cooperation and ensure stability in the region.
The recent visit of the Chinese research ship is also seen in the context of the Maldives’ evolving foreign policy, which seeks to balance its relations with major powers. The Maldivian government has expressed its commitment to a ‘pro-Maldives’ foreign policy strategy, which involves reevaluating its security partnerships to maintain its sovereignty and national interests.
Moreover, the Maldives has been grappling with internal security challenges, including illegal fishing and drug trafficking, which are exacerbated by the vastness of its maritime jurisdiction. These issues, along with the potential impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise and coastal erosion, underscore the importance of robust maritime security arrangements.
In this delicate geopolitics, the Maldives’ handling of the Chinese research vessel’s visit is indicative of its efforts to navigate the complex interplay of regional power dynamics while safeguarding its own security and economic prosperity. The Maldivian government’s assurance that the vessel would not conduct research in its waters reflects its cautious approach to external military activities, even as it seeks to strengthen ties with China through economic aid and investment.
The Indian Ocean is set to remain a theater of strategic competition, with China’s maritime research activities being a point of contention. The dual-use nature of these research vessels, coupled with the strategic mistrust among regional players, suggests that the security concerns in the Indian Ocean will persist. It is imperative for regional stakeholders to engage in dialogue and establish norms to ensure that the Indian Ocean remains a zone of peace and cooperation, rather than conflict and rivalry.
