New Chinese submarine may redefine non‑nuclear naval power

A Chinese shipyard in Wuhan launched a submarine that will likely be the most advanced conventionally-powered vessel in the Chinese navy. The submarine features X-shaped rudders, a first for Chinese submarines. It is highly likely to be 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 boast about the progress on the vessel, which was only revealed in July 2024 by naval expert Tom Shugart. The expert noticed it while reviewing commercial images from April 26, 2024, showing the Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group shipyard in Wuhan, taken by a Chinese company that manufactures conventional submarines.

Shugart posted on platform X, noting that the images 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 submarine class. 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 4,380 tonnes. It is also equipped with X-shaped rudders, a novelty for Chinese submarines. This design likely aims to enhance their agility and maneuverability, 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.

If this indeed happens, then according to Naval News, the vertical launch systems "will make the Chinese submarine one of the most powerful non-nuclear submarines in the world." The publication emphasizes that this will surprise planners, who currently categorize 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 is currently the owner of 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.