A third Chinese “research” vessel has now entered the Indian Ocean region, adding to a small but growing flotilla operating across the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. Two other Chinese “research” vessels are already active across these waters. By studying the shape of the seabed, the Shi Yan ships can help build highly detailed underwater maps. Under pressure from India, and reportedly also from the United States, Sri Lanka subsequently restricted Chinese research vessels from docking at its ports. India, by contrast, operates a far smaller fleet of around 10 to 12 research vessels.

Source: The Telegraph March 25, 2026 06:59 UTC