In a significant blow to China’s military ambitions, its newest nuclear-powered attack submarine sank earlier this year. This incident, which occurred in late May or early June, was kept under wraps by Chinese authorities and has only recently been disclosed by U.S. officials. The submarine’s sinking represents a major setback for one of China’s key weapons programs.
The Incident
What Happened?
The submarine sank at a shipyard near Wuhan, China, during its final stages of preparation before heading to sea. The vessel, part of the Zhou-class submarines, is a new class of nuclear-powered attack subs that feature advanced technology, including a unique X-shaped stern for improved maneuverability.
Was the Submarine Carrying Nuclear Fuel?
U.S. officials have not confirmed whether the submarine was carrying nuclear fuel at the time of the sinking. However, experts outside the U.S. government believe it is likely that the sub was loaded with fuel. This adds another layer of concern, given the environmental risks of a nuclear-powered vessel sinking.
China’s Naval Expansion Efforts
Increasing the Nuclear Submarine Fleet
China has been focused on rapidly expanding its navy, particularly its fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. Previously, submarine production was centered in the northeastern city of Huludao. Now, China is diversifying its submarine production, with plans to build nuclear-powered attack submarines at the Wuchang Shipyard near Wuhan, where the incident occurred.
Fleet Size and Modernization Goals
As of the end of 2022, China had 48 diesel-powered attack submarines and six nuclear-powered attack submarines, according to a Pentagon report. The goal of expanding and modernizing its fleet is to counter U.S. and allied efforts in the region, particularly concerning Taiwan. China’s aim is to achieve maritime superiority within the first island chain, which includes territories from Japan through Taiwan and the Philippines to the South China Sea.
Strategic Importance
U.S.-China Tensions
The Pentagon views China as its principal long-term “pacing challenge,” as Beijing continues to build up its military. The U.S. has expressed concerns that China is using its growing naval power, including submarines, to exert pressure on Taiwan, which it considers part of its territory.
China claims that its military expansion is aimed at deterring aggression and protecting its overseas interests. However, the sinking of its newest submarine represents a significant challenge to its efforts.
China’s Undersea Technology Ambitions
Historically, undersea technology has been an area where the U.S. has held a significant advantage. However, China has been working hard to close that gap by investing in advanced submarine technology and expanding its naval capabilities.
Recovery Efforts
Salvaging the Submarine
Satellite images taken in early June showed large floating cranes arriving at the shipyard to salvage the sunken submarine from the riverbed. The vessel was observed alongside a pier on the Yangtze River just before the incident, undergoing its final preparations.
Concerns
The sinking of China’s newest nuclear-powered submarine is a considerable setback for the country’s naval modernization efforts. As China continues its push to build a world-class military, incidents like this raise concerns about the reliability of its technology and its ability to achieve maritime superiority.
References
- Pentagon report on China’s military power (2022)
- Wall Street Journal report on China’s submarine sinking
- U.S. official statements regarding the incident