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China's New Warship: Submarine Drone Mothership?
18 Sep
Summary
- China is building a massive warship capable of deploying autonomous submarines.
- The vessel is located in a Shanghai shipyard and has an internal hangar.
- The drones can travel over 10,000 nautical miles, nearly halfway around Earth.
Satellite images reveal China is constructing a massive warship believed to be capable of launching autonomous submarines. The vessel, spotted at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai, appears equipped to carry and deploy these underwater drones.
This specialized mothership could house up to four "extra-extra-large uncrewed undersea vehicles" (XXLUUVs). These uncrewed submarines, measuring between 115 to 148 feet, have a potential operational range exceeding 10,000 nautical miles, nearly reaching halfway around the Earth's equator.
The construction of this advanced naval asset coincides with Beijing's ongoing efforts to solidify its influence in the South China Sea, a region with overlapping territorial claims. Neighboring Taiwan also closely monitors these developments with concern, given China's stated intentions towards the island nation.
