Tensions are escalating in the Bay of Bengal as a Chinese ocean research vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 03, ventures into an area declared as a no-fly zone by India for a naval subsurface firing exercise.
The proximity of the Chinese vessel, a mere 120 nautical miles from the exercise zone, has raised concerns about potential surveillance and intelligence gathering activities.
While China maintains that its vessels are engaged in civilian research, their presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has been a source of concern for India, which views them as potential dual-use platforms capable of serving military purposes. This incident comes amidst heightened strategic competition between the two nations, both vying for influence in the Indo-Pacific.
The Indian Navy has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to establish a no-fly zone for the duration of the naval exercise. The navy is closely monitoring the movements of the Xiang Yang Hong 03, and the situation is being assessed for any potential security threats.
Experts believe that the simultaneous presence of a Chinese research vessel near a major Indian naval exercise is a deliberate show of force and an attempt to gather intelligence.
They highlight the growing strategic rivalry between India and China in the IOR, with both nations expanding their naval capabilities and presence in the region. The Indian Navy's response to this situation will be critical in setting the tone for future maritime interactions between the two countries.
