Canada and the United States have been discreetly monitoring two Chinese icebreaking research vessels in Arctic waters near Alaska for the past few weeks. The ships, known as Xue Long (Snow Dragon) and Xue Long 2, navigated through the U.S. exclusive economic zone in the Bering Sea in July, as reported by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The presence of Chinese research vessels in the Arctic during summers has raised concerns among security and defense authorities. Independent research consultant Steffan Watkins documented that a Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 surveillance aircraft has been operational in Alaska since early July.
The Department of National Defence confirmed that the Canadian Joint Operations Command has been actively observing the activities of the Chinese vessels alongside American counterparts. The vessels are currently operating outside Canada’s exclusive economic zone, an area where the country holds rights over resources and jurisdiction for activities like research and marine environment protection.
Last year, the Canadian military initiated Operation Latitude to enhance monitoring of northern waters and collaborate with Pacific allies, particularly in the Bering Sea off Alaska. The Royal Canadian Navy deployed ships like HMCS Ottawa, HMCS Max Bernays, and HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, along with surveillance aircraft and other units.
Defence Minister David McGuinty mentioned that Canada vigilantly monitors its waters, while China, declaring itself a near-Arctic state, asserts its icebreakers’ deployment for scientific research and environmental studies. However, these vessels have been known to deploy advanced buoys that track environmental changes and submarine activity.
Western defense experts suggest that the Chinese research ships could serve various purposes, including monitoring undersea infrastructure. Canada’s role in the western Pacific has become crucial amid other global engagements, although limitations exist due to the aging naval fleet.
Members of the House of Commons defense committee, after visiting the Arctic in July, emphasized the need for increased surveillance in the region. They noted China’s growing interest in the Arctic and its cooperation with Russia, challenging the capabilities of countries like Canada to respond effectively.
The federal government has started investing in new destroyers, Arctic-capable submarines, and an undersea sensor network to strengthen Arctic defense. The urgency stems from concerns about protecting sovereignty in the Far North, where maritime claims by Russia and China pose challenges that require proactive measures from Canada to safeguard its interests.
