New satellite images on Google Maps have confirmed a dramatic expansion in China’s submarine navy, a report by The U.S. Sun states. At least six nuclear-powered subs were seen based at the First Submarine Base, approximately 18 km east of Qingdao along the Yellow Sea. Strategically located, the base gives China quick entry to strategic maritime areas such as the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan.
Breakdown of the Submarines
Australian naval expert Alex Luck posted the photos on X, saying five of the submarines seen are nuclear-powered and conventional-armed. These include, according to reports, two Type 091 submarines, two Type 093A submarines, and one unknown vessel. Luck ventured that the unknown submarine might be being decommissioned, since nearby maintenance was seen.
Also seen in the photographs is China’s sole Type 092 ballistic missile submarine, although it has been replaced by the newer Type 094 class since then.
China’s Submarine Strategy
According to The U.S. Sun, China may have lost one of its newest nuclear-powered attack submarines, the Type 041, in an accident at a shipyard between last May and June. The news sparked a mention in the report of Chinese navy captain Wen Xuexing, who declared in June 2023: “Now, the country’s submarine force development comprises both nuclear-powered and conventional boats, with nuclear-powered being the main focus.”
The Daily Guardian was unable to confirm the information in the report independently.
Taiwan Increases Military Drills
With military pressure building, Taiwan has begun a 14-day series of defense exercises as part of its annual Han Kuang war games. The drills are intended to prepare for a possible Chinese attack.
The initial phase consists of computer-based exercises with American systems to mimic worst-case invasion scenarios, including “grey zone” operations where China uses military and economic pressure without official warfare.
Taiwan will also try out its new military equipment during these exercises, such as M1A2T tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, and anti-ship missiles. The live-fire component is set for July.
Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo averred this year’s exercises are predicated on “a hypothetical invasion by China in 2027.”
China’s Capabilities Under Scrutiny
China has responded by hosting its own two-day military exercises off the coast of Taiwan, featuring live-fire exercises. Satellite images revealed the deployment of big hybrid ships intended to act as floating bridges, potentially permitting the landing of tanks and troops directly on Taiwan’s coast.
Military experts believe that these gigantic barges come with stabilising legs to fix onto the seafloor, like the ones deployed by the Allies in their 1944 D-Day invasions.
Media reports suggest China is building a minimum of five giant troop-conveying barges. They can be utilized to transport tanks and as much as 1.2 million troops across the Taiwan Strait, experts believe, if there was a full-blown invasion.
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