Chinese Spy Ship Maintaining Position Near Indian Coast for likely K-4 SLBM Test

Defense News ,India :-  The Chinese research and surveillance vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 01, is currently stationed near the coast of Vizag, catching the attention of maritime observers. According to real-time data, the ship is barely moving, with a speed of 0.2 knots.

This situation follows a period of increased activity in the area after India issued several Notices to Airmen and sailors (NOTAMs), indicating ongoing operations of strategic importance. One active NOTAM covers a range of 3500 kilometers.

One noteworthy event is India's recent testing of the Agni-V Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) system and the possible preparation for a test launch of the K-4 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM).

Questions arise about the purpose of Xiang Yang Hong 01's close proximity to the Indian coastline. Given its stationary position during heightened Indian ballistic missile testing, analysts speculate the vessel may be involved in:

1. Acoustic Signature Monitoring: Collecting sound patterns related to India's ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) to track and identify submarines, especially those with nuclear capabilities.

2. Missile Trajectory Tracking: Tracking the flight paths of Indian missile tests to gather intelligence on their capabilities.

India's ongoing development and testing of SLBMs, a crucial part of its maritime defense strategy, highlight the increasing emphasis on undersea capabilities.

The presence of surveillance vessels like Xiang Yang Hong 01 underscores foreign powers' strategic interest in monitoring these developments, raising concerns about maritime security in the region.