Chinese research vessel ignores Philippine demands near undersea cable, takes evasive action
Chinese cable loitering described as 'gray-zone' warfare
A Chinese research vessel loitering near an undersea cable ignored demands by the Philippine Coast Guard to withdraw, broadcasting a false identification and taking evasive action, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. The September incident prompted the Philippines to dispatch its largest vessel, while a Chinese coastguard ship intervened and Beijing complained of harassment. The article says several incidents suggest China is actively mapping the seafloor for vulnerabilities.