Chinese Research Vessel Detected Mapping Waters off Australia’s Western Coast

Australia’s Defense Department has detected a high-tech Chinese research vessel off the country’s western coast—a strategic sea route near Christmas Island.

One of three Chinese warships is seen docked at Garden Island naval base in Sydney on June 3, 2019. Peter Parks/AFP via Getty Images

Australia’s Defence Department has detected a high-tech Chinese research vessel off the country’s western coast—a strategic sea route near Christmas Island often frequented by submarines.

The oceanographic ship—the Xiang Yang Hong 01—conducted deepwater surveys and travelled through waters in the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone (AEEZ) during the months of January and February, Australian Border Force (ABF) told the Australian Broadcasting Commission (ABC).