Thousands of Chinese-Flagged Vessels Cluster Off Japan in Unusual Formations
Feb 27th 2026
Analysts say the formations and relative immobility differ from normal fishing patterns, prompting increased Japan Coast Guard patrols and the detention of one captain after a vessel entered territorial waters.
- Satellite imagery published Feb 12, 2026 shows thousands of Chinese-flagged vessels arranged in dense grids near waters administered by Japan.