China builds fleet for potential Taiwan operations, experts warn
China is intensely developing a fleet of special barges that could be used for an assault on Taiwan. Newly observed units at the Guangzhou shipyard have long road bridges, suggesting their potential use in landing operations.
At the Guangzhou shipyard in southern China, the construction of at least three, and possibly five or more, special barges has been noticed. These units, equipped with lengthy road bridges, could be crucial for future landing operations on the Taiwanese islands, reports the "Naval News" portal.
These barges have bridges over 120 metres long, allowing them to reach coastal roads or hard surfaces beyond beaches. At the stern, there is an open platform enabling the docking of other ships and unloading. Some of the barges are equipped with stabilising columns, providing stability even in challenging weather conditions.
China's growing maritime ambitions
China is intensifying its maritime ambitions by developing a fleet aimed at dominating the Pacific. Recently, the world's largest Type 076 landing ship was launched, highlighting China's growing maritime power.
This ship, equipped with modern systems, can carry up to 1,000 soldiers and symbolises Beijing's aspirations to replace the USA as a global hegemon.
Dr Emma Salisbury from the Council on Geostrategy, quoted by the "Naval News" portal, admits that an invasion of Taiwan would require a large number of ships for the rapid transport of equipment and personnel. The new barges could be part of the preparations for such an operation, enabling landings in places previously considered unsuitable.
China is investing enormous resources in technological development and fleet expansion, aiming to take control of Taiwan. Currently, the Chinese navy is larger than the US fleet, which underscores Beijing's ambitions.
China strives not only to catch up with but also to surpass the West, posing a challenge to the global order. New barges could form part of the strategy to strengthen maritime forces, enabling landings in locations previously considered unsuitable.
Taiwan strengthens its defence forces
In response to growing tensions with China, Taiwan has begun comprehensive Han Kuang military exercises. These exercises aim to test the effectiveness of critical infrastructure and communication systems in defence against a potential Chinese blockade.
This year, the focus was on realistically replicating the battlefield, abandoning demonstrative manoeuvres. Damien Symon, a defence analyst, notes that these new barges are adapted to cooperate with the Chinese RORO ferry fleet, which can transport heavy military vehicles.
