Yuan Wang-5 arrives at Hambantota Port

It arrives today morning at Hambantota port in Sri Lanka. The Yuan Wang 5 survey vessel is described by security analysts as the latest generation of China’s space-tracking ships capable of monitoring satellites, rockets and intercontinental ballistic missiles.

The vessel with some 2,000 sailors on board has facilities to track satellites and intercontinental missiles and is slated to remain at the port till August 22.

The stopover was initially scheduled for August 11, but was delayed at the request of the Sri Lankan government.

According to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Yuan Wang 5 was cleared to dock at Hambantota port from Tuesday to August 22 after the government “engaged in extensive consultations at a high level through diplomatic channels with all parties concerned.”