Chinese research vessels violated Taiwan’s northern maritime boundaries, therefore prompting the Coast Guard Administration (CGA) to take swift action. The operation highlighted growing maritime tensions and also intensified scrutiny of Taiwan’s defense readiness in the north.
Earlier in the day, CGA personnel detected the Xiang Yang Hong 18 and the Dong Fang Hong 3 at 9:58 a.m. on Friday. Both Chinese research vessels sailed southeast and northeast near Taiwan. In response, CGA patrol vessels quickly formed a two-to-one formation to monitor and drive them away.
Specifically, officials explained that the Xiang Yang Hong 18 approached 58 nautical miles northwest of Pengjia Islet and moved toward Taiwan. At 12:16 p.m., CGA units broadcast a warning 7.8 nautical miles west of Pengjia Islet. Afterward, they then used maneuvering techniques to force the vessel to change direction. By 3:45 p.m., the ship had moved 25 nautical miles east of Pengjia Islet and left the area.
Meanwhile, the Dong Fang Hong 3 appeared 42 nautical miles north-northwest of Cape Fugui at 12:35 p.m., sailing northeast. CGA ships shadowed the boat along the boundary to prevent it from entering restricted waters. At 4 p.m., they confirmed the vessel had remained outside Taiwan’s territory.
Subsequently, the CGA strongly criticized the intrusions. Officials said Chinese research vessels ignored international maritime regulations and threatened regional peace. They urged China to stop such provocations, warning that these actions fuel public anger on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Beyond this specific incident, recent investigations exposed critical weaknesses in northern maritime defenses. Between June last year and May, four Chinese vessels entered northern waters. Notably, one small vessel entered the Tamsui River estuary without detection. It traveled just 8 kilometers from Guandu Bridge and 22 kilometers from Taipei’s political and economic center.
The Ministry of National Defense has long viewed the estuary as a strategic vulnerability. As a result, Control Yuan members recommended that the CGA strengthen personnel training, modernize equipment, and conduct surprise penetration tests. These measures aim to improve vigilance and boost surveillance capabilities.
Furthermore, security experts argue that repeated incursions by Chinese research vessels reveal urgent gaps in maritime monitoring. They emphasize that Taiwan must enhance patrol coordination, upgrade technologies, and increase readiness.
Looking forward, the CGA plans to tighten northern maritime patrols, conduct more frequent operational drills, and deploy improved monitoring systems. Through these actions, Taiwan aims to maintain maritime security and deter future intrusions.
