Map Shows Where Chinese Ships Have Been Detected off Alaska

China has simultaneously deployed five research vessels in or near the Arctic around Alaska recently, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, which is currently monitoring their movements , telling Newsweek the service "remains ready to respond to adversaries operating in and around Alaskan and U.S. Arctic waters."

Newsweek has contacted the Chinese Foreign Ministry for further comment via email.

Why It Matters

China has long asserted itself as a " near-Arctic state " and an important stakeholder in Arctic affairs. It has steadily expanded its presence in the region—surrounded by NATO member states and Russia—including deploying three research vessels simultaneously last summer.

The U.S. has been alarmed by China's presence in the Arctic—as well as its cooperation with Russia—a