Indian Ocean: China’s state-of-the-art research vessel Da Yang Hao is once again heading towards the Indian Ocean region, declaring Port Louis, Maldives as its operational base. The ship operates under China’s Ministry of Natural Resources and is designed for in-depth marine research. The length of the ship is approximately 98.5 metres, with a crew of 60 people.
The ship is equipped with AUV
The most special thing about the ship is that it has an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), which can operate at a depth of up to 6,000 meters. This AUV is used for ocean floor mapping, exploration of mineral resources, climate data collection and other scientific studies. China presents it as a peaceful scientific mission, but it is believed that it could also be used for military purposes. Can also be used for submarine tracking, sea route surveillance or missile testing.
China has done such things before also
From October 2025 to February 2026, this is the sixth Chinese research vessel that has entered the Indian Ocean. Earlier, other ships like Da Yang Yi Hao, Shen Hai Yi Hao, Lan Hai Series and Shi Yan 6 have also seen activity in this area. Many of these ships have used the ports of Maldives, Sri Lanka and other island countries.
Indian Navy is keeping a close eye
Making Maldives a base is considered very important because it is near India and is located on the major sea routes of the Indian Ocean. The Indian Ocean handles about 80 percent of global trade. The Indian Navy is keeping a close watch on the movements of the ship. Experts say that the Indian Ocean is the center of global trade and strategic balance, hence the increasing maritime presence of any country is naturally monitored.
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