The U.S. Coast Guard reported on Tuesday that it observed two Russian ships and two Chinese vessels sailing together in formation through the Bering Sea on Saturday. This display of cooperation between Beijing and Moscow in the Arctic is a significant development.
The Chinese and Russian coast guard ships were sighted approximately five miles inside the Russian exclusive economic zone, marking the northernmost location where Chinese vessels have been detected by the U.S. Coast Guard. The Bering Sea acts as the dividing line between Russia and Alaska.
Rear Adm. Megan Dean, commander of the 17th Coast Guard District, highlighted the growing interest in the Arctic region by strategic competitors, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
In a previous instance in July, Russian and Chinese bombers conducted a joint flight in international airspace near the Alaskan coast. While not deemed a threat, this event marked the first time Chinese bombers had entered the Alaskan air defense identification zone and the first instance of Chinese and Russian aircraft taking off from the same base in northern Russia.
The Chinese coast guard issued a statement explaining that the joint patrol with Russia, following a joint drill, aimed to inspect fishing boats to uphold order in the North Pacific Ocean in compliance with U.N. and international regulations. The vessels engaged in exercises related to search and rescue operations for illegal boats, showcasing effective coordination and cooperation between the two nations.
The close military ties between China and Russia have raised concerns in Washington, particularly in light of Beijing's support for Moscow's actions in Ukraine. The evolving dynamics in the Arctic region underscore the shifting geopolitical landscape and the need for continued monitoring of activities in the area.
