China's growing influence in Indian Ocean is worrying. Here’s why

Since the late 2010s, China has been deploying covert spy ships disguised as ocean research vessels near strategic locations like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and the Maldives. Reports by think tanks and media houses validate these concerns. They highlight China's systematic endeavours to strengthen its naval capacities for blue water supremacy, as well as the country's attempt to expand its influence into critical areas while fortifying its maritime capabilities. Of particular note is China's possession of the world's largest fleet of dual-purpose civilian research vessels , ostensibly deployed for scientific and commercial pursuits but also aligned with its broader strategic objectives….