Chinese Navy unveils advanced submarine with groundbreaking features
A Chinese shipyard in Wuhan has launched a submarine that will likely be the Chinese navy's most advanced conventionally powered vessel. The submarine features X-shaped rudders, a first for Chinese submarines, and it is probably equipped with vertical launch systems (VLS). What do we know about it?
According to Naval News, the submarine observed in the Chinese shipyard was launched in April 2024. However, Beijing did not publicly highlight the progress on the vessel, which was only revealed in July 2024 by naval expert Tom Shugart. Shugart noticed it while reviewing commercial images from 26 April 2024, showing the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group shipyard in Wuhan. These images were taken by one of the Chinese companies that manufacture conventional submarines.
New Chinese submarines
Shugart posted on platform X, noting that the images seem to show a newly launched Hangor II class submarine, the first of eight being constructed for Pakistan. He also mentioned the possibility of a second, potentially new class of submarine. Additionally, he speculated that the images might indicate the presence of a new class of Chinese submarines. Naval News suggests that the most straightforward explanation for the new vessel's appearance is that China is developing a variant of the conventional-powered Type 039A submarines, known by its NATO codename, Yuan.
The new vessel has dimensions similar to those of Yuan-class submarines. For example, the Type 039A submarines are about 78 metres long and have a displacement of 4,028 tonnes. It is also equipped with X-shaped rudders, a novelty for Chinese submarines. This design likely aims to enhance their agility and manoeuvrability, especially in shallow waters. Naval News also notes that the slightly longer hull suggests that the new submarines may be equipped with vertical launch systems (VLS) and can accommodate between four and eight missiles, including anti-ship ballistic missiles.
China building its maritime power
According to Naval News, If this indeed happens, the vertical launch systems "will make the Chinese submarine one of the most powerful non-nuclear submarines in the world". The publication emphasises that this will surprise planners, who currently categorise China's conventional submarine forces as having "only local significance".
However, it is worth noting that not only is the Chinese submarine fleet gaining strength, but Beijing is also focusing on surface ships. China currently possesses the world's largest naval fleet, numbering approximately 370 ships. Recently, China launched the third aircraft carrier, Fujian, which has been sent for sea trials. There have also been photos of a mysterious vessel resembling the Swedish Visby-class stealth corvettes.
As we have already reported, the exact specifications of this vessel (similar to that of the new submarine) are classified. Still, satellite images suggest that the hull is designed to reduce various signatures, including optical, infrared, acoustic, and radar. This design aims to increase its survivability and effectiveness during combat missions.
