China is testing a new hybrid vessel with unique features, designed for both civilian and military missions. Technical data analysis.
China has launched a mysterious hybrid vessel, dubbed a “civilian aircraft carrier”, which recently made its first sea voyage. Built by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) at its Guangzhou yard, the vessel boasts innovative features, including a three-island structure, a flight platform and space for drones, helicopters and boats. With an estimated length of 200 meters and a capacity of 15,000 tons, it combines civil and military functions. It has a maximum speed of 16 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles. This vessel could play a key role in research missions, coastal defense operations and the testing of new naval technologies.
A ship with a unique design and unprecedented functionalities
The vessel’s intriguing three-island configuration is located on the starboard side of the flight deck. These islands perform distinct functions: one is dedicated to navigation, another to flight operations management, and the third to exhaust systems and technical equipment. This architecture is designed to separate tasks to optimize mission efficiency. Unlike traditional military aircraft carriers, this vessel is designed to commercial standards. The absence of military numbering on the hull and the presence of CSSC markings confirm its primary civilian use.
However, its capabilities, such as a platform for drones and helicopters and a possible hangar deck, show that it could be used for military missions if required. With a 25-meter-wide deck, the vessel is capable of handling several aircraft simultaneously.
Rapid production: a model of industrial efficiency
The Guangzhou shipyard has demonstrated impressive construction speed. Work began after May 2024, and the vessel was already operational between September and October of the same year. This represents a production cycle of just 5 to 6 months, a feat for a vessel of this size and complexity.
This rapid pace reflects China’s desire to strengthen its maritime fleet for multiple purposes, while optimizing costs and time thanks to modular construction methods. Such ships, built to commercial standards, are less expensive than strictly military aircraft carriers, which often cost in excess of €2 billion.
Strategic implications for the region
The launch of this vessel could alter the strategic balance in Asia. Although presented as a research vessel, it can easily be converted into a military platform. With its drone deployment and air operations management capabilities, it would be useful in areas such as the Taiwan Strait or the South China Sea, where tensions are high.
Its 5,000-nautical-mile range and 40-day endurance at sea enable it to carry out extended missions, including underwater surveillance and amphibious operations. These characteristics show that this vessel could be used for power projection missions, while officially being intended for civilian purposes.
A platform for technological innovation
The ship could also be used as a platform for testing new technologies. Chinese tenders mention specific equipment, such as a straight-through deck, a spherical radome for sensors, and compartments for boats. This makes it an ideal testing ground for marine and aerial drones, technologies crucial to the future of naval fleets.
Experts believe that China could develop similar concepts for other dual-purpose vessels. These initiatives reinforce China’s ability to integrate civilian technologies into its military equipment.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.