China practices direct beach assaults using dual-use civil-military landing craft

China Enhances Military Capabilities with Civil-Military Landing Craft for Beach Assaults

Recent analyses of satellite imagery and Automatic Identification System (AIS) data reveal that the People"s Republic of China (PRC) is intensifying its military preparations for potential beach assaults, particularly concerning Taiwan. The focus of these preparations is on the use of dual-use civil-military landing craft, specifically designed for direct beach landings. This development marks a significant shift in China"s military strategy, as it appears to be practicing direct beach assaults using these vessels.

Key Details

According to military analysts, China has been utilizing "deck cargo ships" in military transport exercises for several years. These ships, which are typically employed for transferring vehicles and materials from port to port, have now been observed in exercises that suggest a shift towards direct beach assault capabilities. The exact number of these vessels remains uncertain; however, a search of AIS data for Chinese-flagged cargo ships measuring between 85 to 100 meters yields approximately 1,000 results. The lack of detailed data and photographs complicates efforts to narrow down the specific types of vessels in use.

Analysts have noted that the PRC is now practicing direct beach assaults using a type of Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) cargo ship, which is derived from military landing craft designs. While the precise number of these RORO ships is indeterminate, it is clear that they exist in significant quantities, and their operations and construction are challenging to track. The potential contribution of these civilian RORO vessels to a military landing operation on Taiwan has been discussed in previous reports, emphasizing their strategic importance.

In addition to the RORO ships, the logistics of such an operation would require access to ports, whether these are captured ports or China"s newly developed Shuiqiao-class "invasion barge" Landing Platform Units (LPUs). The use of these Landing Craft Tanks (LCTs) could significantly enhance the sealift capacity for initial beach assaults, a critical factor often cited in assessments of the People"s Liberation Army"s (PLA) ability to execute a successful landing operation.

Background

The ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan have led to increased military activity in the region. The PLA"s focus on enhancing its amphibious assault capabilities reflects broader strategic objectives concerning Taiwan, which China considers a breakaway province. The use of civilian vessels for military purposes underscores the dual-use nature of China"s maritime assets, blurring the lines between commercial and military operations.

Previous reports have highlighted concerns regarding China"s amphibious invasion capabilities, noting a lack of dedicated invasion ships. However, the integration of civilian ROROs into military exercises suggests a potential shift in this dynamic, as these vessels could provide the necessary logistical support for large-scale military operations.

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What"s Next

The implications of these developments are significant for regional security and military strategy. As China continues to refine its capabilities for direct beach assaults, the potential for increased military tension in the Taiwan Strait rises. The PLA"s ability to leverage civilian maritime assets for military purposes may alter the strategic calculus for Taiwan and its allies, prompting a reevaluation of defense postures in the region.

As previously reported, the situation surrounding Taiwan remains fluid, and the international community is closely monitoring China"s military activities. The integration of dual-use vessels into military exercises could represent a new phase in China"s approach to its territorial claims and its military readiness in the face of potential conflict.

For further insights into China"s military strategies and their implications, see our related coverage on China"s options for Taiwan unification.