The large Chinese ships are believed to be gathering information for naval planners — currents, bathymetry, salinity of the water etc — which are all relevant to submarine warfare.
Research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 03, that can collect data for both civilian and military purposes, is on its way to the Maldives. It had earlier docked in the island country twice.
India expected to carry out tests of 2 nuclear-capable missiles between 11 & 16 March. Not 1st instance of a Chinese ship entering Indian Ocean Region just before Indian missile tests.
Initial talks held on the possibility of India entering the programme that was started in 2017 between France, Germany and Spain to ensure European sovereignty in defence and security.
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