Two Chinese research vessels with advanced seabed mapping capabilities have travelled through waters near Alaska as part of a wider Arctic mission, drawing attention from US authorities monitoring activity in the region.
The vessels, the Xue Long and Xue Long 2, entered the US exclusive economic zone (EEZ) while heading north through the Bering Sea. The US Coast Guard confirmed that it was tracking their movement across the country’s EEZ and extended continental shelf.
US coast guard monitors Chinese vessels
In response to the vessels’ passage, the US Coast Guard deployed the Legend-class cutter USCGC Munro to monitor and escort the ships. The movements were also followed by the US State Department and the Pentagon.
Under international maritime law, foreign vessels are permitted to travel through another country’s exclusive economic zone. The Coast Guard noted that the presence of the Chinese ships alone did not represent a violation of international rules.
However, officials and defence analysts have highlighted the capabilities of the vessels. Both ships are equipped to conduct detailed oceanographic research and produce highly accurate maps of the seabed.
Concerns over military uses of ocean research
While Beijing describes these missions as scientific research, information gathered from seabed surveys can also have potential military applications.
Detailed knowledge of underwater terrain can help navies plan submarine operations, improve navigation and monitor important underwater infrastructure, including communication cables.
Experts have also pointed out that oceanographic data such as water temperature, salinity and underwater conditions can play an important role in submarine detection and tracking.
China has increased its scientific and maritime activity in strategically important waters in recent years. Chinese research vessels have been observed operating near locations including Guam, Hawaii, Taiwan and parts of the Indian and Arctic oceans.
Growing competition in the Arctic region
The latest voyage comes amid increasing interest in the Arctic, where countries are competing for strategic influence and access to resources.
China has described itself as a “near-Arctic state” and has expanded its scientific and maritime presence in the region. In 2024, China and Russia conducted a joint patrol in Arctic waters, highlighting closer cooperation between the two countries in the area.
Similar concerns have been raised about Chinese ocean research activities elsewhere. In one case, an Indonesian fisherman reportedly discovered a Chinese underwater drone believed to have been used for seabed mapping and maritime monitoring.
Beijing has stated that its research expeditions focus on areas such as climate studies, mineral exploration and fisheries. However, naval experts argue that some of the collected information could also support military planning.
The ability to create detailed maps of the ocean floor and understand underwater conditions is considered increasingly important for modern naval operations, particularly as competition between major powers expands into areas such as the Arctic.
