Taiwan Reports First Known Sighting of Chinese Militia Vessel Off East Coast

A Chinese fishing vessel identified as part of Beijing’s maritime militia has been spotted operating alongside a coast guard cutter and research ship off Taiwan’s Pacific coast.

The August sighting is believed to be the first known appearance of a Chinese maritime militia vessel in the sensitive waters east of Taiwan.

The development comes amid increased Chinese activity in the area since June, including regular coast guard patrols.

Taiwan says the growing presence could be linked to preparations for a potential maritime blockade involving military, paramilitary and civilian assets.

Taiwan’s Defence Ministry accused Beijing of using law enforcement and scientific research activities to expand its presence and create an appearance of effective control over the waters.

The ministry said its military is monitoring the activity through reconnaissance operations in coordination with the coast guard and other agencies.

Two senior Taiwanese officials confirmed the group was operating near Taiwan in mid-August. They said the fishing vessel had been identified as part of the People’s Liberation Army’s maritime militia and was being tracked amid Chinese coast guard activities.

A surveillance report said a reconnaissance aircraft detected the group more than 30 nautical miles off Hualien County on Taiwan’s eastern coast.

Radar, infrared imagery and automatic identification system data were used to document the sighting.

The vessels were spread across an area of roughly 10 nautical miles, although surveillance officials said the operation could not determine their specific missions or establish whether they were coordinating.

China’s maritime militia is largely made up of fishing vessels whose crews receive training and support to operate in disputed waters, often alongside coast guard ships.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office and Defence Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.