Vietnam to add 32 patrol vessels to its coast guard fleet

Vietnam is planning to invest $540m to construct 32 patrol ships for its coast guard, amid maritime disputes with China.

The latest decision comes after a Vietnamese fishing boat with a six-member crew was held by a Chinese maritime security vessel earlier this month, according to China’s Global Times.

In a bid to thwart a direct confrontation with the People’s Liberation Army, the Vietnamese Government has set up its first Directorate of Fisheries last year to carry out irregular operations against Chinese vessels.

Currently operating a fleet of 40 patrol vessels, the additional boats would assist in boosting its defences amid a territorial clash with China in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.

In addition to new vessels, Vietnam is set to receive decommissioned coastguard vessels from Japan early next year.

Reports revealed that Japan was unable to instantly offer decommissioned patrol ships to Vietnam as its own coast guard had been stretched by the extensive surveillance activities.

Several Vietnamese and Chinese patrol ships, including coast guard vessels, have been reportedly found moving around a Chinese oil rig in disputed waters continuously.

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