China has deployed spy vessels, disguised as ocean research vessels, near Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and various regions in the Indian Ocean since 2019. The vessels aim to monitor India s assets and conduct research on minerals in the sea-bed. In 2021, the Chinese spy vessel Hai Yang Shi You 760 was located in the Bay of Bengal near the coast of Myanmar. The presence of such vessels raises concerns about Beijing s strategic interests and surveillance activities in the Indian Ocean Region.
India News: India-Maldives ties strained as Maldives allows Chinese vessel despite India's concerns. Maldives claims vessel won't conduct research. Sri Lanka has
India is closely monitoring the movement of the Chinese spy vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 03, which is scheduled to reach the Maldives. The vessel, claimed to be an ocean research vessel by Beijing, is currently in SE Asian waters. India is tracking its activities, including any attempt to gather data on regional resources.
Last week, Colombo had asked Beijing to defer the visit after reports said India raised security concerns. However, New Delhi has denied any role in the matter.