A Hong Kong-flagged cargo vessel that was reportedly involved in a Chinese military exercise in 2022 has departed Taiwan’s Taichung Port following a four-day port call. The ship, identified as the SCSC Fortune, a 6,550-ton general cargo ship, left the port on Saturday after unloading its cargo, raising concerns due to its potential military ties.
The ship, which arrived at Taichung Port on Tuesday evening to unload its cargo, moved to a different pier on Friday before departing Taiwan on Saturday afternoon. The SCSC Fortune is now anchored at a designated location, awaiting favorable weather conditions before continuing its journey to its next destination, Shanghai, according to Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC).
Concerns About the Ship’s Military Connections
The SCSC Fortune caught the attention of Taiwan’s military and local journalists when it was linked to Chinese military exercises. In 2022, the ship was reportedly used by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) for military operations. Taiwanese journalist Chris Horton highlighted this concern in a post, referencing a 2022 report that showed the SCSC Fortune acting as a “mothership” for PLA special forces units. The ship was allegedly used to transport smaller assault crafts for military drills.
This revelation stirred some unease as it suggested the vessel could have been used for covert operations. According to the original post by X user Rod Lee, the SCSC Fortune was seen in Chinese state broadcaster CCTV footage, where it was shown carrying PLA special operations forces (SOF) during military exercises in the vicinity of Taiwan. These types of exercises have raised alarm about potential future threats from the Chinese military.
Ship’s Role and Potential Threats
The ship’s involvement in military operations highlighted a strategic use of civilian vessels for military purposes, a tactic that could be employed by the Chinese government to avoid detection while conducting military activities near Taiwan. Observers noted that the vessel’s presence in Taiwan while Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te was abroad on a diplomatic tour fueled rumors that China might conduct military exercises in the region.
Some analysts, like Taiwanese military affairs writer Wang Chen-ming, speculated that the presence of the SCSC Fortune in Taichung Port could be a cover for a larger Chinese operation, possibly involving an attack on Taiwan. Wang emphasized the potential of China using commercial ships for surprise military action. However, he pointed out that if such a covert attack were underway, Taiwan’s air defenses could be rapidly compromised, with Chinese forces moving to critical bases such as the Ching Chuan Kang Air Base in central Taiwan.
Taiwan’s Response and Military Precautions
Despite the concerns, Taiwanese officials have maintained that the SCSC Fortune posed no immediate threat. Taiwan’s Maritime Port Bureau confirmed that the ship received all necessary clearances and that there were no security violations associated with its visit to Taichung Port. Taiwanese authorities have not reported any unusual activity linked to the vessel during its port call.
The ship’s next destination, according to tracking data, is Shanghai, where it is scheduled to arrive on Wednesday. Meanwhile, authorities are keeping a close watch on the ship’s movements and any potential future risks related to Chinese military activities in the region.
Table: Key Details of the SCSC Fortune Incident
| Date of Arrival | Location | Ship’s Departure Time | Next Destination | Ship’s History |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 3, 2024 | Taichung Port, Taiwan | Dec 7, 2024, 3:29 p.m. | Shanghai | Used in Chinese military drills in 2022 |
FAQs
Q: Why was the SCSC Fortune in Taichung Port?
A: The SCSC Fortune arrived at Taichung Port on December 3 to unload cargo and remained there for four days before departing.
Q: What is the connection between the SCSC Fortune and Chinese military activities?
A: The ship was reportedly used in 2022 by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) as a “mothership” to carry special forces during military drills near Taiwan.
Q: Did the SCSC Fortune pose any security risks to Taiwan?
A: Taiwanese authorities confirmed that the vessel had all necessary authorizations to dock at Taichung Port and that there were no security concerns during its visit.
Q: What is the next destination for the SCSC Fortune?
A: The SCSC Fortune is currently on its way to Shanghai, with an expected arrival date of December 10, 2024.
Q: How does Taiwan monitor foreign vessels like the SCSC Fortune?
A: Taiwan’s Maritime Port Bureau monitors all incoming and outgoing vessels to ensure compliance with international regulations and national security protocols.
