• China’s advanced tracking vessel Yuan Wang 5 has re-entered the Indian Ocean region after three years, raising fresh strategic concerns for New Delhi.
• The ship’s presence comes at a time when India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting airspace over the Bay of Bengal from 24 to 25 September, sparking speculation about a possible hypersonic missile test.
• The Yuan Wang 5 was last observed near Indonesia on 18 September 2025 before moving into the Indian Ocean. Known for its sophisticated satellite and missile-tracking capabilities, the ship is operated by the Strategic Support Force of the Chinese PLA Navy. It is fitted with long-range monopulse radar systems capable of monitoring satellites, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and space missions. With a crew of over 400, the vessel has been deployed in more than 80 missions since 2007, including China’s crewed spacecraft and lunar explorations.
• Following a technical upgrade in 2022, the ship gained enhanced navigation power, safety systems, and specialised equipment operability. Its earlier visit to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port in 2022 had already drawn India’s attention due to the port’s Chinese management and strategic location.
• The renewed appearance of Yuan Wang 5 in India’s maritime neighbourhood highlights growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean.
• India remains vigilant, viewing the vessel’s dual-use technology as a potential tool for intelligence gathering, especially amid its own defence preparedness.