Canada lends ‘Dark Vessel’ -Detection -Equipment to help Taiwan Covert Ship activity with Taiwan

Canada and Taiwan Strengthen Cooperation on Dark Vessel Detection Technology

Canada has recently signed a memorandum of agreement with Taiwan to share satellite data for identifying illegal fishing vessels in Canadian waters. This technology, known as dark vessel detection, not only helps combat illegal fishing but also assists Taiwan in monitoring secretive maritime activities by China.

The relationship between Canada and Taiwan has been growing, despite Canada’s lack of formal diplomatic relations with the island. Last year, Ottawa even placed a Cyber-Attaché in Taiwan to enhance cooperation in combating cyber threats, many of which originate from China.

The Dark Vessel Detection (DVD) program, developed by the Canadian government, uses satellite technology to track ships that have disabled their location transmitters. This technology can penetrate cloud cover to locate these “dark ships” or “dark barrels”. Canada has previously shared this technology with Ecuador and the Philippines, both of which have territorial disputes with China.

The collaboration with Taiwan is part of Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific policy, aimed at increasing its presence and influence in the region. Taiwan, facing increasing pressure from China, can use this technology to safeguard its maritime interests and counter China’s gray zone tactics.

Vina Nadjibulla, a researcher at the Asia Pacific Foundation, views the DVD program as a success story for Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy. She believes that Taiwan can leverage this technology to protect itself against various threats, including those posed by Chinese ships around Taiwan-controlled islands.

Both Canadian and Taiwanese officials have highlighted the importance of this collaboration in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. By sharing expertise and technology, Canada and Taiwan are working together to address common challenges and enhance maritime security.

The partnership between Canada and Taiwan underscores the shared commitment to upholding international law and protecting the marine environment. Through cooperation and information sharing, both countries are better equipped to address illegal fishing activities and ensure the safety of maritime navigation in the region.