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by The US Navy has complained of harassing behavior from multiple Chinese vessels in the South China Sea. China claims the vicinity belongs to China and they have every right to interdict other nation’s vessels, although the recent incident has not been addressed by the Chinese government. The Navy claims the USNS Impeccable was operating in international waters performing an oceanographic survey. While the incident is hardly a new occurrence, it adds yet another wrinkle to the tenuous diplomatic and military relations between the US and China.
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Who do we think we are kidding? by Occams :: NR8 :: Show
Let’s get real. Most countries with large ocean coastlines claim an exclusive economic zone, typically out to 200 miles. Usually it is to claim fishing rights and mineral resources. International commercial shipping is allowed to transit unhindered, but naval vessels need permission.
Media reports about the motives of naval vessels of any flag are never to be taken seriously. Navy oceanographic surveys are probably about planning submarine operations. We would not be too happy if the Chinese were doing that 100 miles off San Diego or Boston.
If Impeccable is actually an ocean surveillance ship as described, then her designed role is to spy, and it is perfectly reasonable for the Chinese to be concerned about her. This is what the USN says about her role (in the quoted link) :
Oceanographic and hydrographic surveys, underwater surveillance, missile tracking, acoustic surveys, command and control, and submarine and special warfare support are just a few of the specialized services provided to:
Hardly an innocent vessel, this is a wolf in wolf’s clothing.
Harrassment is an expected part of her operations and by the highly manoeverable look of her she can handle it.
Since 911 the clearance requirements for foreign vessels entering US waters (even private yachts from friendly countries) are onerous and strictly enforced. The USA is the last country that should be bitching about harrassment in this area. I can’t believe that the USN is really concerned about this. This is either a media beat-up or it is a pretext for escalating tension with China.