HMCS Regina passes by the Victoria shoreline on August 6, 2020. (Department of National Defence)
During a recent Arctic patrol, a Canadian warship made its first encounter with a Chinese polar research vessel in the Bering Strait. This meeting highlights growing global interest in the Arctic as the region warms, drawing more attention from major international players.
The Canadian ship, HMCS Regina, was on its inaugural Arctic patrol when it came across the Chinese research vessel Xue Long 2 earlier this month. The Canadian Department of National Defence confirmed this interaction, noting that it was handled safely and professionally. The Chinese vessel was part of a larger group of four warships, which were observed in international waters and did not engage with Canadian forces.
The presence of the Chinese naval group was first detected by the U.S. Coast Guard on July 6. They reported the vessels operating within the U.S. exclusive economic zone, which extends 200 nautical miles from Alaska's coastline. The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Kimball monitored the Chinese task group until it left the area and entered the Pacific Ocean, south of the Aleutian Islands.
Canadian Forces dispatched HMCS Regina from its base near Victoria on July 7. Commander Dave Mazur described this as a rapid but significant deployment. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the Chinese vessels were engaged in "freedom of navigation operations," and they communicated their intentions openly.
Recent warming in the Arctic, which is happening at about four times the global average rate, has made the region more accessible and attractive to foreign powers. Frederica Dupuis, a spokesperson for National Defence, highlighted concerns that competitors are increasingly probing Canadian infrastructure and gathering intelligence. She noted that foreign actors are seeking access to Arctic resources and routes through increased activity.
The situation is part of a broader trend of growing international interest in the Arctic. Last week, Russian and Chinese bombers conducted a joint flight in international airspace off Alaska, prompting interceptions by U.S. and Canadian fighter jets. Dupuis pointed out that China and Russia have been increasingly active in exploring the Arctic's air and sea approaches. This activity includes collecting data that could be used for military purposes.
Despite not being an Arctic nation, China aims to become a "polar great power" by 2030. The country is expanding its navy and submarine fleet to support its ambitions in the region. The Canadian government is monitoring these developments closely as the Arctic continues to draw global attention due to its strategic and resource value.
