China's 'Monster Ship' Reappears in West Philippine Sea After Year-Long Absence
In a significant development, the China Coast Guard 5901, often referred to as the "monster ship" due to its massive size, has been observed once again in the West Philippine Sea. This sighting, based on monitoring by US maritime expert Ray Powell, marks the vessel's first return to the area after an absence of nearly one year.
Intrusive Patrol and Deployment Details
According to Powell, the CCG vessel conducted an intrusive patrol near central Vietnam, representing the first deployment of the ship south of Hainan Island since July 2025. Following this activity, the vessel passed within a distance of approximately 74 kilometers near the town of Itbayat in the province of Batanes on Sunday. The massive ship remained in the vicinity only briefly before heading back in a westward direction.
Recent Movements and Historical Context
By Tuesday morning, the CCG vessel was reportedly observed almost returning to Hainan Island. It is noteworthy that the last sighting of this "monster ship" occurred at Panatag or Scarborough Shoal in February of the previous year. Powell noted that the vessel remained relatively quiet throughout 2025, possibly staying close to the coastline of China during that period.
This reappearance raises concerns about maritime activities in the region, highlighting ongoing tensions and the strategic movements of vessels in the contested waters of the West Philippine Sea.
