Taiwan probes Chinese-linked ship over undersea cable damage
Taiwan Probes Chinese Cargo Ship for Undersea Cable Damage
Taiwan is investigating a cargo ship linked to China for damaging an important undersea internet cable. The Taiwanese Coast Guard found seven Chinese nationals on the ship suspected of harming the Trans-Pacific Express Cable, which connects Taiwan to countries like South Korea, Japan, China, and the United States. This incident highlights Taiwan's vulnerability to disruptions in its critical infrastructure amid rising tensions with China.
Details of the Incident
Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan's main telecom provider, reported the cable damage, but communications were quickly rerouted to avoid major outages. The Taiwan Coast Guard intercepted the cargo vessel near Keelung, a northern port city. The ship, owned by a Hong Kong company, was registered under flags from Cameroon and Tanzania. The Coast Guard Administration suggested the possibility of "gray zone harassment" by China.
Expert Opinions
Gregory Poling from the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative noted that such harassment is a long-standing tactic by China to intimidate Taiwan. Yisuo Tzeng from the Institute for National Defence and Security Research warned that these actions could desensitize Taiwan, making it vulnerable in a real conflict.
Ship Identity and Investigation Challenges
The ship, identified as "Shun Xing 39," used fake transponder data, with its real identity being "Xing Shun 39." William Conroy, a maritime analyst, confirmed this discrepancy. Rough seas prevented Taiwanese authorities from boarding the ship, and they have sought help from South Korea, where the crew claimed to be heading.
Past Incidents and Future Measures
Similar incidents have occurred, including cable damage near Taiwan's Matsu Islands. Taiwan is developing a backup system using low-Earth orbit satellites to ensure connectivity during crises, avoiding reliance on Elon Musk's SpaceX due to its ties with China.
Broader Context
China's maritime activities have increased, with nearly 90 Chinese vessels entering waters around Taiwan recently. These gray zone activities add tension to Taiwan's situation. Similar incidents in Europe, like the Baltic Sea cable damage, show the difficulty in determining if such disruptions are deliberate or accidental.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island located near China. It is known for its technology and electronics industry. Taiwan has its own government and operates separately from China.
Chinese Cargo Ship
A Chinese cargo ship is a large boat used to transport goods and products from one place to another. In this case, it is linked to China, meaning it is either owned by a Chinese company or operates under Chinese regulations.
Undersea Internet Cable
An undersea internet cable is a long wire that lies on the ocean floor. It helps connect different countries to the internet by transmitting data across the sea.
Connectivity
Connectivity refers to the ability to connect to the internet or communicate with others. It is important for using the internet, making phone calls, and sending messages.
Transponder Data
Transponder data is information sent by a device on a ship that helps track its location. It is like a GPS for ships, showing where they are on the ocean.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard is a group of people who help protect the sea and its borders. They make sure ships follow rules and help in emergencies at sea.
Satellite Backup System
A satellite backup system is a plan to use satellites in space to keep communication going if something happens to the usual internet cables. It helps ensure that people can still connect to the internet even if there is a problem.
Maritime Activities
Maritime activities are actions or operations that take place on the sea. This can include shipping, fishing, and naval exercises.
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