The Ten Degree Channel: Location, Dimensions, and Strategic Importance

The Ten Degree Channel is a strait in the Andaman Sea that separates the Andaman Islands (India) from the Coco Islands (Myanmar). It lies roughly along the 10° North latitude line, hence its name.

Key Dimensions

• Width at narrowest point: ~150 km (93 miles)
• Maximum depth: ~2,200 m (7,200 ft)

Strategic Significance

• Major shipping route connecting the Indian Ocean with the Bay of Bengal.
• Critical for Indian Navy surveillance and maritime domain awareness.
• Lies within India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on the Andaman side.

The channel is named for its approximate latitude (10°N) and is distinct from the nearby Six Degree Channel (between Great Nicobar and Sumatra) and the Nine Degree Channel (in the Lakshadweep region).