Source: The post is based on the article “Why is the visit of a Chinese vessel to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port controversial?” published in The Hindu on 16th August 2022.
What is the News?
Sri Lanka has approved the arrival of a Chinese satellite-tracking vessel named “Yuan Wang 5” to its southern Chinese-funded Hambantota port.
The ship was scheduled to arrive at the port but was delayed in absence of permission by the Sri Lankan authorities.
What is Yuan Wang 5?
Yuan Wang 5 is the third-generation scientific research ship of the Yuan Wang series, owned by China.
The ship can be used to monitor satellite, rocket and intercontinental ballistic missile launches. Several experts have described it as a “dual-use spy ship”.
The ship will be used by China to conduct satellite control and research tracking in the northwestern part of the Indian Ocean Region through August and September.
How has India responded?
India has expressed its concern over the Chinese vessel visit. India is concerned about the possibility of the ship’s tracking systems attempting to snoop on Indian installations while being on their way to the Sri Lankan port.
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