(VIDEO) Mysterious Chinese “Aircraft Carrier” Emerges at Sea, Capturing Global Attention

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – On November 26, a vessel resembling an aircraft carrier was spotted embarking on its maiden voyage from a shipyard in Guangzhou after an expedited construction process.

To date, the primary function of this enigmatic vessel remains a puzzle for global defense analysts and observers.

The first reports of the mysterious “flat-top” surfaced when pictures and videos showed the the mysterious ship departing Guangzhou Shipyard International, located on Longxue Island in Guangzhou.

Notably, the vessel features three distinct island-like superstructures on its deck.

It is speculated that this could be China’s second aircraft carrier undergoing trials, potentially joining the ranks of the Type 003 Fujian operated by the Chinese Navy.

However, the vessel lacks any insignia typical of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), instead displaying the civilian logo of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) on its superstructure.

BRIEF:

On November 26, a mysterious vessel resembling an aircraft carrier was spotted departing Guangzhou Shipyard International after rapid construction. The ship, featuring three island-like superstructures, lacks traditional military insignia and instead displays a civilian logo, raising questions about its intended purpose.

Speculated to be linked to a 2022 Chinese government tender for a 200-meter vessel with dual civilian and military capabilities, the ship is equipped with features suggesting support for drones, helicopters, and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) operations.

While its exact mission remains unclear, analysts highlight its potential for dual-use roles, aligning with trends of civilian-registered ships contributing to military operations. The vessel has drawn significant attention from global defense observers, underscoring its enigmatic nature and strategic implications.

The hull bears the name “Zhong Chuan Zi Hao.”

Observers suggest the ship’s design is likely tied to a 2022 Chinese government tender seeking a 200-meter-long vessel with a 25-meter-wide flight deck and a displacement of 15,000 tons.

The tender outlined requirements for a top speed of 16 knots, a range of 5,000 nautical miles at 12 knots, and the ability to remain at sea for up to 40 days.

Recent imagery and video indicate the vessel is equipped with side compartments that could serve as hangars for aircraft or drones.

It also features cranes that might be used for deploying smaller vessels, alongside indications of preparations for VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) operations.

Although the exact purpose of the ship remains under debate, analysts speculate that it may serve dual civilian and military roles.

Civilian vessels are often reconfigured to deploy drones and helicopters for scientific or non-military missions, while retaining the capability to support or conduct military operations if necessary.

This dual-use approach aligns with a growing trend of civilian-registered ships being employed to support military missions, blurring the line between civilian and defense applications. — DSA