Thousands of Chinese fishing boats were seen gathered in geometric shapes in East China Xi in recent months. Experts believe that this activity could be part of preparation for a possible regional crisis or military situation. Jason Wang, an analyst who monitors the activity of ships, noticed that a large number of Chinese fishing boats were standing in two inverted L-shaped parallel lines. The length of these lines was approximately 400 kilometers. At that time about 2,000 boats were seen simultaneously and several thousand ships were passing through that busy sea route.
These ships were identified by their Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals, which works like GPS and helps avoid collisions with ships. According to reports, some boats were parked just 500 meters away from each other and remained in place for about 30 hours amid strong winds. After this they suddenly scattered in different directions. It is believed that such straight and precise lines are rarely seen in natural conditions. This is the reason why this activity has attracted the attention of defense experts. This incident was recorded about 300 kilometers north-east of Taiwan.
Where does China’s boat work?
Even in early January, a large group of about 1,000 Chinese fishing boats was seen in the same area, spread in a rectangular shape for about 400 kilometers. Recently about 1,200 boats again stood in two parallel lines at one place for about 30 hours. Let us tell you that China has the world’s largest fishing fleet, which works in Yellow Sea, East China Sea and South China Sea. Fishermen from Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam and Philippines also fish in this area. Although there is no complete consensus as to why these boats gathered together, many experts believe that they were not there for fishing. Gregory Poling said that he had never seen such a large gathering of fishing boats outside the port before.
China can siege Taiwan
According to AFP report, this could be a test of China’s capability, in which a large number of civilian ships can be mobilized together and used in military operations. For example, these boats can be used during the siege of Taiwan or any regional conflict. According to Jennifer Parker, having so many boats at such close distance cannot be normal fishing activity. He said that this activity could show the ability to coordinate from a military point of view. David Krudsma also said that China’s fishing fleet is very organized and it is possible that the vessels have been ordered to stop fishing in a particular area or to gather in one place for some exercise. It is believed that China is working on a strategy to include its civilian ships in military plans. If there is any major military operation regarding Taiwan, then such civilian ships can be used to help the army.
China’s plan against Taiwan
Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China has increased military pressure around Taiwan in recent years. According to the 2025 report of the United States Defense Department, China is trying to achieve such military capability by 2027 that it will be able to fight a war against Taiwan. Many experts believe that China’s maritime militia provides military assistance when needed. He can get involved in such activities. This network has already been used to strengthen China’s territorial claims in South China Xi.
