China’s Yuan Wang 5 Enters Indian Ocean Waters
China’s advanced spy ship Yuan Wang 5 has reappeared in the Indian Ocean region after three years. This development comes amid India’s preparations for a possible hypersonic missile test over the Bay of Bengal. New Delhi is closely monitoring the ship due to its sophisticated satellite and missile tracking capabilities. The presence of Yuan Wang 5 near India’s maritime neighbourhood has raised strategic concerns.
Recent Movements and Strategic Context
The Yuan Wang 5 was last spotted near Indonesia around 18 September 2025. India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting airspace over the Bay of Bengal from 24 to 25 September. This has led to speculation about India testing a hypersonic long-range anti-ship missile during this period. The simultaneous presence of the Chinese tracking vessel nearby has heightened vigilance in New Delhi.
Capabilities of Yuan Wang 5
Yuan Wang 5 is equipped with multiple high-accuracy, long-range monopulse radar systems. These radars can acquire and track objects manually or automatically. The ship tracks satellites and missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles. It has a crew of over 400 personnel and is operated by the Strategic Support Force of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy). The vessel has been involved in over 80 missions since 2007, including tracking China’s crewed spacecraft and lunar missions.
Technical Upgrades and Operational History
In 2022, Yuan Wang 5 underwent a technical upgrade. Improvements were made to its navigation power, safety features, reliability and specialised equipment operability. The ship’s enhanced capabilities strengthen its role in space and missile tracking. In August 2022, it docked at Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka, a strategic location leased to a Chinese state-owned company. This visit had sparked security concerns in India.
Geopolitical Implications in the Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is a critical zone for maritime security and strategic competition. China’s deployment of Yuan Wang 5 near India signals its intent to maintain surveillance and tracking capabilities in the region. India views this with caution due to dual-use technology on the ship that could support intelligence gathering. The timing of the ship’s return alongside India’s missile test preparations adds to regional strategic tensions.
India’s Response and Regional Security Measures
India’s issuance of a NOTAM restricting Bay of Bengal airspace indicates readiness for missile testing and heightened security alertness. New Delhi is actively monitoring Chinese naval movements and diplomatic channels to manage security risks. The Indian Ocean remains a theatre of strategic rivalry with increasing naval deployments and surveillance activities by regional powers.
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