The Office of Palau’s National Security Coordinator (NSC) reported that a Chinese research vessel, Song Hang, entered Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) without authorization in late August. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Chinese research vessels have entered Palauan waters without permission.
The Song Hang, identified as a “research and survey” vessel belonging to Shanghai Ocean University, is registered with the North Pacific Fisheries Commission and the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission. According to the NSC report, the vessel was observed “loitering” in an area of international waters near the EEZs of the Eastern Philippines, Southern Japan, and Palau until it entered Palauan waters, traveling 100 nautical miles south on September 15.
NSC Coordinator Jennifer Anson noted the timing of the vessel’s movement, stating it occurred “just one day before the Palau-U.S. Joint Committee Meeting in Palau.” The Song Hang reversed course on September 17, moving north back into international waters above Palau’s EEZ, before departing for Shanghai on September 20.
The NSC report further highlighted that the vessel’s travel patterns did not align with typical fishing activities, suggesting instead operations consistent with deep-sea research. Records indicate that the Song Hang has been lingering in the high seas north of Palau since June 2022.