Taiwan Coast Guard Drives Away Chinese Research Vessel Tongji

Taiwan has repeatedly accused China of using civilian-styled ships to pressure the island. The practice, termed “gray-zone” harassment, accompanies regular Chinese military deployments and is intended, according to Taipei, to test the island’s resolve and exhaust its maritime forces.

The Straits Times

On 7 May 2026, Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration spotted the Chinese research vessel Tongji 29 nautical miles (54 km) southeast of Taiwan’s southern tip, just outside the restricted zone. The ship lowered ropes, which the coast guard interpreted as deploying scientific instruments for “illegal” survey work. A Taiwanese patrol vessel approached, created wake interference, and broadcast a message ordering the vessel to leave. The Tongji retrieved its equipment and left the area on 11 May 2026 after being shadowed.

Taipei TimesThe Straits Times

The Tongji, commissioned in 2025, is described by Chinese state media as having all-weather capability. It is equipped to deploy remotely operated vehicles, laboratory modules and uncrewed systems, and can conduct marine geology, oceanography, marine chemistry, marine biology research, as well as offshore engineering tasks like pipeline laying.

Taipei Times

Taiwan’s coast guard said it disrupted “illegal” operations and forced the vessel to depart, calling the act a breach of international law. The administration urged Beijing to cease such practices. The Chinese Taiwan Affairs Office did not comment.

Taipei Times

Chinese state media portrayed the Tongji as a legitimate scientific platform, emphasizing its research and engineering functions. This contrasts with Taiwan’s claim that the ship conducted unauthorized surveys in waters it considers its own.

Taipei Times

Taiwan alleges illegal surveying; China frames the mission as civilian research. No comment was received from the Taiwan Affairs Office, and independent verification of the vessel’s activities was not reported.

The Straits Times

• “forcefully expel the vessel, prohibiting it from conducting related activities.” — Taiwan Coast Guard

Taipei Times

• “Chinese research vessels, in disregard of international law, have attempted to conduct illegal survey activities in our waters,” — Taiwan Coast Guard

The Straits Times

• “Chinese state media says the Tongji has all-weather operational capability and can carry remotely operated vehicles, laboratories and uncrewed systems.” — Chinese state media

Taipei Times

• “It can be used for marine geology, oceanography, marine chemistry and marine biology research, and is capable of performing offshore engineering operations such as pipeline laying, Chinese media have reported.” — Chinese state media

The Straits Times

The incident highlights Taiwan’s effort to enforce its claimed maritime boundaries and the strategic use of civilian vessels in regional power contests. Repeated confrontations risk escalating diplomatic friction and complicate international maritime law.

The Straits Times

Taiwan’s coast guard said it will continue to monitor Chinese vessels near its waters. Both sides are expected to watch future deployments, and the episode may spur further diplomatic exchanges over the legality of civilian maritime activity in contested zones.

The Straits Times