Taiwan Intercepts Chinese Research Vessel and Coast Guard Ships in Restricted Waters
Taiwan remains on high alert for Chinese incursions, with the latest incidents occurring on March 12 and 13 near Kinmen and Dongding Island. Taiwan’s Coast Guard intercepted a Chinese research vessel, Yanping 2, and later four Chinese Coast Guard ships in restricted waters.
On March 12, Taiwan detected Yanping 2 entering prohibited waters near Dongding Island. Two patrol boats were dispatched, instructing the vessel to leave. As it was being escorted out, the crew dropped detection equipment into the water, raising concerns that China may be conducting military-related research under the guise of scientific exploration. After being confronted, Yanping 2 retrieved its equipment and exited the area by 15:52 local time.
The following day, four Chinese Coast Guard vessels entered Kinmen’s southern waters at 14:50. Taiwan’s patrol boats responded, ordering them to leave. The Chinese ships exited the area at 17:00.
Taiwan has increased monitoring efforts, particularly targeting Chinese-owned merchant ships operating under foreign flags. Recent incidents include a Chinese cargo vessel damaging undersea cables in January and another being detained near sensitive infrastructure in February.
Taiwan’s Coast Guard strongly condemned China’s actions, vowing to continue safeguarding its maritime borders against further gray zone incursions.
