The Indian Navy has stepped up its vigilance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) after the arrival of yet another Chinese satellite and missile tracking ship. This newest vessel joins three similar ships already operating in the IOR, further escalating concerns within India's defence establishment.
The Indian Navy is employing a comprehensive surveillance strategy to track these Chinese "research" vessels, even when they resort to evasive tactics like deactivating their transponders. India's maritime defence includes the deployment of P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and naval warships.
The Chinese ships belong to the Yuan Wang class, operated by the People's Liberation Army's Strategic Support Force. They are equipped with a range of sophisticated technology, such as large antennae, advanced sensors, and electronic equipment.
Their capabilities extend beyond scientific research, potentially allowing them to monitor satellite launches, track ballistic missile trajectories, and even engage in electronic surveillance.
India's heightened surveillance underscores its strategic concerns in the IOR. The presence of these advanced Chinese vessels in the region represents a potential security challenge for India and adds a new dimension to the ongoing tensions between the two Asian powers.
