Source : IgMp Bureau
India has strategically positioned its research vessel, RV Samudra Ratnakar, in the Indian Ocean Region, between two Chinese survey ships, XIANG YANG HONG 01 and XIANG YANG HONG 03, which are currently stationed off India’s eastern coast. This move is seen as a counter-response to the presence of Yuan Wang 3, a Chinese military survey ship, in the same region.
The RV Samudra Ratnakar, operated by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), is a cutting-edge oceanographic research vessel constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. Spanning 103 meters in length, this vessel is designed for extended missions, capable of sailing continuously for 45 days and accommodating up to 73 personnel, including 25 geoscientists.
While the official objective of this deployment remains unconfirmed, it is speculated that India has positioned the RV Samudra Ratnakar to potentially disrupt the data collection efforts of the Chinese survey ships. The Yuan Wang-class vessels are reputedly utilized for tracking and supporting ballistic missiles, prompting concerns regarding their proximity to India’s strategic areas.
This strategic move underscores the persistent tensions between India and China, particularly concerning their activities in the Indian Ocean. It underscores the strategic significance of the region and the rivalry for resources and influence.
The RV Samudra Ratnakar is equipped with an impressive array of scientific instruments, including:
- Positioning Systems: DGPS, Dynamic Positioning
- Sonar Systems: Multibeam, Sub-bottom Profiler
- Seismic Equipment: Multi-channel Seismic System
- Magnetometers and Gravimeters
- Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
- Coring and Sampling Devices
- Marine Data Management System
This strategic deployment of the RV Samudra Ratnakar reinforces India’s commitment to safeguarding its interests in the Indian Ocean Region and serves as a clear message to China regarding its presence in the area.
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