Satellite Imagery Suggests China Is Building a Massive, Mysterious Ship

In recent days, satellite images of a strategic site on the geopolitical map have circulated widely, sparking speculation. Early reports suggested China might be constructing an anti-poaching radar and missile launch facility in a crucial South China Sea region. Now, new images again point to China and reveal a new, enigmatic ship under construction.

The mystery ship. Satellite images from a shipyard in southeastern China reveal the construction of a large vessel with an open, flat flight deck. Observers note that the design resembles either a light aircraft carrier or a large amphibious assault ship. Another possibility is a dual-purpose oceanographic research vessel, a field in which China has made significant investments for both civilian and military applications.

Tom Shugart, a researcher at the Center for a New American Security and former Navy commander, identified the ship at the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) on Longxue Island in Guangdong Province. Shugart noted that construction has progressed rapidly, with the ship appearing in satellite images between September and October 2024. The images show ongoing work on the deck.

Possible uses. Experts suggest that based on the imagery, the ship’s unusual dimensions indicate it is smaller than China’s Type 075 aircraft carriers. Its structure and size resemble light aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships used by other nations, possibly designed for low-risk operations, patrols, and surveillance.

Experts estimate the ship is about 650 feet long and 130 feet wide, featuring a main island and a smaller structure at the bow. This size places it in a category with other light carriers, such as Japan’s Hyūga-class, rather than China’s Type 075. Additionally, the presence of angled masts suggests space for radars and sensors, common equipment on military vessels.

Chinese Navy expansion. According to War Zone, the construction at GSI, a shipyard specializing in commercial vessels, highlights China’s growing interest in expanding its naval capabilities across multiple locations. It also reflects China’s ambition to accelerate the development of its naval forces with aircraft carriers, amphibious ships, and other advanced vessels. Experts believe this new type of ship could support patrol, anti-submarine operations in the Taiwan Strait or South China Sea, and amphibious or surveillance missions.

For science. The ship could also support civilian scientific research while serving as a military platform if needed—a dual-purpose approach consistent with China’s “military-civilian fusion” policy.

Since 2022, reports have surfaced of a Chinese government contract outlining a 650-foot vessel with a “double superstructure island” and similar technical specifications. This structure could theoretically allow helicopters and drones to perform scientific missions and potentially provide military support.

Other possible uses. Another possibility is that it could serve as a test or training platform, as China has previously developed ships to launch drones and conduct military experiments. However, Shugart believes the vessel’s size suggests a more operational role.

Regardless, China’s naval expansion and the construction of this new large-deck ship reflect its commitment to consolidating maritime influence. This dual-purpose capability would allow the ship to support a variety of missions, from military operations to humanitarian and research tasks, reinforcing China’s aim to build a modern, versatile fleet in today’s global landscape.

Images | Planet Labs PBC

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